If you’ve had advanced treatment with Invisalign, chances are you’re very familiar with the small, tooth-colored bumps that are bonded to your teeth. These “attachments” help your aligners grip your teeth to move them more effectively, especially when they need complicated movements. But as your treatment wraps up, the question remains—does Invisalign hurt when the attachments come off? Here’s what you can expect during the process and a few tips for keeping your smile feeling great afterward.
Does it Hurt to Have Invisalign Attachments Removed?
Not at all! Most patients describe the process as quick and painless, often talking more about the pressure they experience instead of discomfort. The whole process usually takes less than 10 minutes, so you won’t even have a sore jaw once you step out of the dental chair.
Your dentist uses a specialized tool to gently buff off each attachment, so you’ll hear some scraping or feel slight vibrations, but you won’t be wincing.
What to Expect After Removal
Once your attachments are gone, your teeth may look and feel a bit different at first. The first thing you might notice is small, rough spots on your teeth. This is just leftover adhesive that your dentist will polish away.
Next, you may feel that your teeth are a little sensitive. However, this is from tooth movement and not a side effect of having your attachments removed. Over-the-counter pain medication and brushing with a desensitizing toothpaste can help you make it through the worst few days.
Finally, your smile will feel smoother to the point where your tongue might subconsciously search for the missing attachments. This might be strange at first, but you’ll eventually forget the bumps were ever there.
Caring for Your Smile After Removing Invisalign Attachments
With your attachments gone, your teeth will need continuous care to stay sturdy and comfortable. Here’s how to protect your results:
- Wear your retainer as directed by your dentist to prevent your teeth from shifting back.
- Brush and floss regularly with fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your enamel.
- Eat warm, soft foods for the first 24 hours after your appointment. This will help keep your sensitivity from being triggered.
After months of wearing aligners, removing your Invisalign attachments is nothing! With one quick, easy, and painless visit, you’ll be one step closer to your new smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Cornelia Dadaciu has spent more than 20 years helping patients achieve healthier, more confident smiles. After earning her dental degrees from Ovidius University School of Dentistry in Romania and Nova Southeastern University in the U.S., she has continued to refine her skills through advanced training in implant and cosmetic dentistry. She loves guiding patients through every aspect of Invisalign treatment year after year. Call (561) 404-4804 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Delray Beach Smile Design or visit our website to learn more.