Will My Gums Get Swollen With Invisalign® Aligners?

By: Dr. Junée F. Gardy

12/9/2022

Invisalign aligners are a popular way to improve your smile without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment. They are clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit your teeth and slowly shift them into the desired position.

Some people are worried that their gums may become swollen and sore while wearing Invisalign aligners. Though this is not a common side effect of treatment, it can happen when the device does not fit properly. Dr. Junée F. Gardy can provide information on how to keep your gums healthy during treatment.

With proper care, Invisalign aligners provide great results and help you achieve a stunning smile in Naples, FL. Call Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA to schedule a consultation and get personalized advice today.

How do Invisalign aligners work?

Invisalign treatment requires a series of clear, removable aligners that move your teeth into a straighter position. Each set of aligners is worn for 1 – 2 weeks and then exchanged with the next set in the sequence. The number of aligners used depends on your individual case. Follow-up appointments are scheduled with Dr. Gardy to assess your progress and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.

Do Invisalign aligners damage the gums?

In general, Invisalign aligners do not damage your gums. Since the aligners are custom-made, they should fit comfortably in your mouth and not cause any irritation. Dr. Gardy takes impressions of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit — so it is not likely you will experience any gum irritation during treatment.

If the aligners do not fit properly or are worn for too long, this could cause your gums to swell and become sore. This is why it is important to follow all instructions provided by Dr. Gardy and call our office in Naples, FL if you experience discomfort of any kind during your orthodontic treatment.

Some people bite the inside of their cheeks or lips when wearing Invisalign aligners. This happens when patients are still getting used to the device, but it usually subsides with time. There is no need to be concerned – it’s just a matter of adjusting to the aligners.

How to prevent warped aligners

Warped aligners can also cause discomfort and disrupt your progress. To prevent this, always store your removable aligners in their case when you’re not wearing them. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, such as boiling water, as this leads to warping. If your aligners become warped, do not put them in your mouth. Contact our office right away so Dr. Gardy can provide a new set of aligners.

How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?

Caring for your Invisalign aligners is an essential part of getting the best results. We recommend that you brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste every day to keep them clean and free of bacteria. You should also rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth. Keeping your aligners clean also keeps your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

Optimize your Invisalign experience

We understand that any type of orthodontic treatment can be daunting. At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA, we aim to provide all the information and support needed to optimize your Invisalign treatment in Naples, FL. Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Junée F. Gardy and see how clear aligners can help you achieve beautiful, straight teeth. We look forward to seeing your smile.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.