Does Invisalign Make Your Gums Bleed?

Interested in Invisalign or have recently started your treatment? Then you may be worried about your gums bleeding.

Is it normal? Does it happen to all Invisalign patients? What can you do to avoid it?

Find out the answers in this short blog post.

Why Invisalign Can (Sometimes) Make Your Gums Bleed

Invisalign works by applying pressure on your teeth and slowly moving them into their most optimal position.

The process can make your gums feel a bit sore, and as your teeth move they can become more sensitive and even start bleeding a bit. However, not all Invisalign users go through this, and even if you do, it only lasts for the first few days after getting a new pair.

With time, your mouth will get used to the aligners and this type of discomfort will go away. If the bleeding persists or you’re experiencing prolonged pain, reach out to your orthodontist. Your teeth may not be “ready” for your current aligners. 

How to Reduce Bleeding Caused By Invisalign

So you’re reading this while wearing your new Invisalign aligners, and experiencing some bleeding and maybe even pain. Here are a few things you can do to reduce your discomfort:

• Eat soft foods - Foods that don’t require a lot of chewing such as purees can help you manage your discomfort. You won’t need to make this dietary change permanent. Just consider doing it for the first 2-3 days, until you get used to your new trays.
• Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush - If you don’t already, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth. If your gums are already bleeding, the softer bristles can provide a more gentle brushing.
• Maintain good oral hygiene - Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Improper oral hygiene increases your risk for further oral health complications like gingivitis or even cavities.
• Clean your aligners every day - Invisalign aligners need to be cleaned with gentle liquid soap every day. Bacteria from your mouth and teeth can transfer to the trays, so even if you are cleaning your teeth, without clear aligners, you can still increase your risk for dental issues down the line.
• Wear your aligners as recommended - Invisalign needs to be worn around 20-22 hours a day. You really should only remove them for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. Following these recommendations will help you get used to your aligners faster, and ensure your teeth follow the right treatment plan.

‍Get a Straighter and Happier Smile at Carmel Mountain Dental Care

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If you’re dealing with tooth alignment or bite issues, Invisalign can be an effective way to get you the happy and healthy smile you truly deserve.

Book a consultation with our dentist in Rancho Peñasquitos, and come find out if Invisalign is right for you!

For more information, call us at (858) 484-4880.

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