Are clear aligners used for straightening teeth painful? No orthodontic treatments will be painless and even though anesthetic is used for tooth extraction and other treatments, once braces or aligners are fitted there will be some degree of discomfort.  

Clear aligners once worn are effectively invisible and is not noticeable and in terms of aesthetics for patients who are self conscious clear aligners can meet their needs. The aligners can also be removed whenever which makes it very convenient for patients. However, many patients have expressed even though clear aligners have their advantages there is a certain extent of pain and discomfort, so is this true?

1.      Before Orthodontic Treatment

For example, patients who have overcrowded teeth and protruding front teeth, prior to orthodontic treatment teeth will have to be extracted. This includes wisdom teeth extraction and with extractions there is some degree of pain.

If extractions are not required then there is the possibility of interproximal reduction, subgingival scaling and root canal treatment which can all be painful. Therefore, the above mentioned are all carried out before orthodontic treatment and the pain is not associated with the fitting of aligners or braces.

2.      During Orthodontic Treatment

When wearing the clear aligners there will be discomfort and this is due to the teeth adapting to the pressure. With the pressure this will result in the periodontal tissues to move causing slight pain. Each time you switch to new aligners this will happen. Of course, even if you wear traditional braces there is also pain and discomfort. But in comparison to braces, clear aligners can cause less pain.  

3.      After Orthodontic Treatment

Once orthodontic treatment is complete, patients will have to wear retainers which also can be uncomfortable.

Overall, how painful the orthodontic treatment is will depend on the severity of the teeth. More importantly the amount of pain and discomfort is also directly linked with the pain threshold of the patient. In most cases patients are able to handle the pain and discomfort.