When you started Invisalign, your first question about it might’ve been whether it hurt. Now that you have finished your treatment, you might already know the answer to that question. However, you may now be wondering if it will be painful to get the attachments on your teeth removed. Here’s a short guide on what you can expect and how it’s nothing to stress over.
What’s the Point of Invisalign Attachments?
As a quick refresher, Invisalign attachments are the tooth-colored, composite resin bumps that were placed throughout your smile. They were important in helping your aligners get a better grip on your teeth and apply specific pressure. This allowed for finer movements, and it’s often needed for a majority of patients who got these orthodontic trays.
Will Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?
A dental drill will be needed to remove your Invisalign attachments, but thankfully it’s typically a painless process. Your dentist isn’t actually going into your tooth, but you may feel vibrations as they take off the composite resin.
It’s often such an easy process that local anesthesia isn’t even needed. If your grin is on the sensitive side, then you may have mild discomfort. The good news is that it goes away soon after you’re finished.
Afterward, your teeth may feel rough, but a quick polishing will get it back to normal. This process doesn’t damage your enamel, but simply smooths it.
So, What Happens After My Attachments Are Removed?
When you finally get your attachments removed, you might wonder what’s next in store for you. Well, it might be getting used to how your smile feels without them! A few people may have slight sensitivity, but it should go away in about a day or so.
You might be ready to waltz out of the office, but don’t go before you have your retainer. This oral appliance is important to keep up with as it ensures your results stay in place for a lifetime. You will be given specific instructions to follow, so stick to them to a T. That way, you protect your investment and feel confident about showing off your straighter grin.
About the Author
Dr. Russell Teasdale earned his dental degree from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine in St. Louis. He has over 40 years of experience, which he uses to give patients in Portland the high-quality care they deserve. He is proud to offer Invisalign as an effective way to correct mild to moderate misalignment and malocclusion. If you have any questions about finishing up your orthodontic tray treatment, schedule an appointment or call his office at 503-974-3829.