Fast facts

Invisalign

What it is: Invisalign braces are clear 'aligners' that resemble tooth bleaching trays.  Invisalign braces are intended to correct crooked teeth, overbites, and gaps by putting pressure on the teeth in gradual increments. 

What it addresses:  Cosmetic tooth irregularities including:

- Crooked teeth
- Tooth Gap
- Minor overbite

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Percent of consumer reviews saying "Yes":

86% Tummy tuck
83% Blepharoplasty
82% Invisalign
81% Smart Lipo
80% Silicone breast implants
79% Photofacial
78% Facelift
78% VASER Liposelection
78% Lasik
75% Laser resurfacing
74% Rhinoplasty
74% Botox
72% Permanent makeup
71% Pixel laser
70% Liposuction
67% Active FX
66% Chemical peel
65% Microdermabrasion
63% Juvederm
61% Restylane
58% Sculptra
54% IPL
52% Radiesse
51% Fraxel Laser
50% Mesotherapy
48% Accent XL
44% Zoom teeth whitening
41% Lifestyle lift
37% Thermage
37% Lipodissolve

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Question

Will Invisalign irritate my gums and lips like traditional braces?

I am currently wearing what's called a space maintainer... I am not sure why (they didn't really explain it to me) because all I want are straighter teeth. I hate the thing, how it looks, how it feels.

I was reading some of the comments on Invisalign and want to know the chances of them being extremely irritable like some of the writers were saying.

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Asked by: Julie in New Hampshire

Answers (1)

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1
June 26, 2008

Irritation from Invisalign is easily remedied

Ryan Sellinger, DMD
Ryan Sellinger, DMD

Irritation of the gums or lips from the aligner is actually rare, but I do see it every now and then.

The good news is that the irritation is really easy to fix. When I do see the irritation, it is from the edges of the aligners rubbing on the gums or lips.

The remedy is to trim and polish the areas that are rubbing... that’s all!

If you are experiencing this irritation, ask your doctor to trim and polish the aligner. It's quick and easy.

For the most part the aligners are comfortable, and I find my patients find the procedure fun and the results can be outstanding. Have your doctor show you some before and after photos.

And enjoy your straight teeth!

6 of 6 people found this helpful
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Comments (1)
Chris the TV Sage
Chris the TV Sage
12/10/08

My situation may be unusual, but I've actually had far less mouth irritation during the treatment than prior to. I can only assume my then-crooked teeth dug into the sides of my mouth while I slept. Now, they can't. :)

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