Some people have naturally sensitive teeth. If you need to straighten your teeth, this sensitivity may come into play. Teeth sensitivity can cause maximum discomfort during any teeth straightening treatment. 

Does Invisalign cause sensitive teeth? This is one of the many questions we receive from our patients looking for options to straighten their teeth. 

In short, teeth sensitivity from Invisalign treatment differs from one to another. One can experience different sensitive levels during treatment, ranging from mild tinges to severe discomfort.

This article will answer whether Invisalign makes your teeth sensitive during post-treatment and, if so, how to manage it effectively. 

Before getting into the topic, it is best to understand the two key reasons for teeth sensitivity in general, regardless of whether one is undergoing Invisalign treatment or not. 

1. Losing Tooth Enamel 

Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth, and it serves as a barrier against external stimuli like hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and drinks. 

When enamel erodes or wears down, it exposes the underlying dentin, which contains tiny tubules leading to the tooth's nerve. Without the enamel's protection, these tubules allow external stimuli to reach the nerve more easily, causing the pain or discomfort associated with tooth sensitivity.

Some of the common causes of enamel loss include acidic food and drinks, teeth grinding (Bruxism), acid reflux or GERD, frequent snacking, and poor oral hygiene. 

2. Brushing Vigorously

It is a common misconception to think that brushing hard is important for cleaner teeth. But did you know the technique of brushing your teeth is important for cleaner teeth? 

In other words, cleaning your teeth properly has to do more with the brushing techniques and angles than how hard you are brushing. 

Most importantly, brushing vigorously can wear off the protective layer of the teeth. This exposes the underlying dentin with tiny tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve. 

When enamel is worn down, these tubules become exposed, allowing hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and drinks to stimulate the nerves, causing pain or discomfort.

Apart from these two contributors, gum recession, tooth decay, tooth damage, plaque buildup, exposed tooth roots, tooth filling, teeth whitening, and dietary habits can be among the causes of sensitive teeth. You could be developing gingivitis, sore or inflamed gums, and exposing the root directly to your tooth. 

Does Invisalign Cause Sensitive Teeth 

While some orthodontists say people wearing Invisalign clear aligners are less susceptible to tooth sensitivity, there is no proper study to validate this statement. Besides sensitivity, some may have a loose feeling with the teeth during or right after the completion of Invisalign treatment. However, this usually settles down within the first few weeks.

However, Invisalign can also cause temporary teeth sensitivity for some individuals, particularly when starting a new set of aligners. 

If you are trying to understand does Invisalign makes your teeth sensitive, here are some of the key reasons why this could happen post-treatment: 

1. Pressure on Teeth

Anyone trying to understand does Invisalign causes sensitive teeth should understand that  Invisalign works by applying gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. 

This pressure can cause temporary teeth sensitivity. This can especially happen when you switch to a new set of aligners. The discomfort usually subsides after a few days as your teeth adjust.

2. Enamel Wear

Although Invisalign aligners are smooth and designed to fit snugly, they still come into contact with your teeth for extended periods. 

This can cause minor enamel wear, especially if you have the habit of grinding your teeth or when you don’t follow proper oral hygiene, causing sensitive teeth. 

3. Dry Mouth

The answer to the question does Invisalign causes sensitive teeth also depends on one's saliva flow. Normally, wearing aligners for a recommended 20-22 hours per day can sometimes reduce saliva flow, making the mouth dry. 

Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids and protecting enamel, so reduced saliva can make your teeth more prone to sensitivity.

4. Gum Irritation

In some cases, the pressure from Invisalign can contribute to mild gum recession, especially if your gums are already prone to issues. Receding gums expose the tooth roots, which are more sensitive to temperature and pressure. So, the answer to the confusion of whether Invisalign makes your teeth sensitive can also result from how your gum reacts to new aligners. 

5. Changes in Oral Hygiene Habits

Since you need to clean your teeth after every meal before reinserting your aligners, you may brush your teeth more often than usual. If you're brushing too vigorously or using toothpaste that is too abrasive, this can lead to enamel erosion and increased sensitivity.

Reducing Teeth Sensitivity with Invisalign 

So analyzing does Invisalign makes your teeth sensitive depends on one's teeth profile. 

Here are a few suggestions on how you can alleviate teeth sensitivity with Invisalign treatment. The first step is to buy a softer toothbrush. Avoid brushing vigorously. It will wear off the cementum, which safeguards the root of your teeth.

Use appropriate toothpaste on sensitive teeth. Remember, you still need to brush your teeth in the morning and at night to achieve the best results. 

If you feel your teeth are sensitive during the day, apply a little toothpaste over the area. However, do not put any toothpaste onto the Invisalign clear aligner, and avoid rubbing it excessively.

Fluoride helps reduce tooth decay. Nowadays, many types of toothpaste on the market contain fluoride, with some products having more fluoride concentration than others. Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth as it protects and encourages the forming of high-quality enamel.

Watch what you eat. Your diet can directly contribute to teeth becoming sensitive. Avoid consuming hot and cold beverages or eating sugary foods, for instance, as these can irritate your teeth, increasing sensitivity.

If your teeth continue to be sensitive, it is best for you to get professional dentist help and discuss treatment options to keep this from occurring.