Do Aligners Hurt? What You Should Know before Starting

Thinking about using aligners to straighten your teeth? You’re probably looking forward to a more subtle, removable, and bracket-free option compared to traditional braces. Still, there’s one question that often pops up for newcomers: Do aligners hurt?

The honest answer? A little—but it’s short-lived.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through why aligners can feel uncomfortable at first, how long that feeling typically sticks around, what kind of pain is normal, and most importantly, how you can ease it. We're here to help you step into your smile journey with confidence.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are transparent, custom-fitted trays that gently shift your teeth into better alignment over time. They offer a wire-free, bracket-free alternative to traditional braces. Different well-known brands offer personalized clear aligner treatment to help achieve the smile of your dreams.

Unlike metal braces that use continuous pressure from wires and brackets, aligners apply gentle, controlled force to guide your teeth into place, and that’s often when a bit of discomfort can show up.

Clear Aligners Treatment Duration

Do aligners work , and how long does it take? Both depend on certain factors. The average treatment duration of clear aligners ranges between four to six months. However, factors including the severity of the case and adherence to the wear time of aligners play a keen role in the treatment duration.

Why Does My Aligner Hurt?

Some level of discomfort is normal with aligners — it’s just part of how they work . Here’s what’s going on:

Your Teeth Are Shifting

Aligners apply light pressure to encourage your teeth to move. The first week with invisible aligners may seem difficult as the teeth are not used to having anything on them. This triggers bone remodeling — a natural process that allows your teeth to shift into their new positions. You might feel a sense of tightness or tenderness, especially when you pop in a new set of trays.

Soft Tissue Irritation

When you first start wearing aligners, the edges can sometimes rub against your gums, cheeks, or tongue. While it doesn’t happen to everyone, this can cause minor irritation or even tiny sores in your mouth as your mouth adjusts.

Changes in Pressure with Each Tray

Each new set of aligners is slightly different, nudging your teeth a bit closer to their final spot. That fresh pressure can bring back some sensitivity, particularly during the first day or two of wearing a new tray.

Is Aligner Pain Normal?

Yes, our teeth are not used to having a consistent pressure exerted on them, which leads to aligner discomfort during treatment. Some individuals may not feel any pain or discomfort throughout the treatment. On the other hand, some may be more sensitive and feel the discomfort. How long do aligners hurt, and the pain level with clear aligners during the treatment depends on the following factors:

• Patient’s pain threshold
• Age of the patient
• Severity of the case

Tips to Reduce Aligner Discomfort

Initially, you might feel a little pressure with clear aligners. However, here are some useful tips to reduce aligner discomfort.

Switch Aligners at Night

Aligners are changed every ten to fourteen days. The best approach is to wear the new set before going to bed to avoid the discomfort of the new pair.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Try sticking to soft foods and avoiding hard and sticky foods, especially when you change your aligner set.

Ice Water

Drinking cold water or applying a cold compress can soothe sore gums and reduce inflammation.

Orthodontic Wax

If the aligners are feeling a little rough on the edges, rub orthodontic wax on them to reduce friction against your gums and cheeks.

Over-The-Counter Medication

After consulting with your orthodontist, try some over-the-counter medications, including ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help manage the tenderness while the teeth adjust to aligners.

Braces vs. Aligners

Are Aligners a Good Alternative to Braces?

Clear aligners have become a popular alternative to traditional braces, offering discreet and effective teeth straightening. Aligners alternatives are widely known for offering invisible teeth alignment for individuals wanting to align their teeth without any compromise to their appearance. Aligners treat mild to moderate dental misalignments like crooked teeth within four to six months. Initially, aligners may cause a slight discomfort. However, unlike metal braces, the pain fades away quickly, making the journey easy and smooth.