Invisalign aligners are designed for comfort, but as your mouth adjusts to wearing them full time, some people experience mild irritation. One of the most common side effects in the early stages of treatment is ulcers, also known as mouth sores.
These small but painful spots can appear on the inside of your lips, cheeks or gums. Although they are usually harmless and short term, ulcers can make eating, speaking and wearing your aligners less comfortable.
If you are dealing with Invisalign ulcers, here is what you need to know, including why they happen, how to ease the pain and when to ask your dentist for help.
Can Invisalign Cause Ulcers?
Yes, it can, especially during the first week or two of treatment. As your mouth adjusts to the aligners, the edges of the trays may rub against soft tissue. This repeated friction can cause minor sores to form.
Ulcers may also develop if:
- Your aligners have a sharp or rough edge
- You clench your jaw or move your mouth frequently
- You are dehydrated or prone to dry mouth
- Your immune system is run down or stressed
Once your mouth becomes used to the aligners, the chances of developing ulcers often reduce significantly.
What Do Invisalign Ulcers Look and Feel Like?
Invisalign-related ulcers usually appear as:
- Small round or oval white patches
- Surrounded by a red or irritated border
- Tender or painful to the touch
- Found on the inside of the cheeks, lips, or along the gumline
They are similar to canker sores and often heal on their own within a week. However, repeated irritation from the same aligner edge can cause ulcers to linger if not managed properly.
How to Relieve Ulcers Caused by Invisalign
1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gently rinse for thirty seconds, twice a day.
2. Apply a Soothing Gel
You can find over the counter oral gels or pastes that coat the ulcer and provide relief. These often contain ingredients that reduce pain and promote healing.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax
If there is a specific spot on the aligner that is rubbing and causing the ulcer, apply orthodontic wax to the edge. This creates a smoother surface and reduces friction.
4. Avoid Spicy or Acidic Foods
Stick to soft, bland foods while your ulcer is healing. Avoid citrus fruits, vinegar, hot spices and crunchy foods that could aggravate the sore.
5. Keep Aligners Clean
Make sure your aligners are cleaned daily with water and a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. A build up of bacteria can slow healing and increase irritation.
Can My Dentist Smooth Out the Aligners?
Yes. If your aligners have a sharp edge or rough spot, your Invisalign provider can make a small adjustment using a polishing tool. Do not attempt to trim or file the aligners yourself, as this could affect their fit and your treatment progress.
If you are getting repeated ulcers in the same spot, it is worth speaking to your dentist for an in person review. They can check for pressure points or suggest alternative ways to manage the irritation.
When to Seek Help for Invisalign Ulcers
Most ulcers are mild and heal on their own within seven to ten days. However, you should speak to your dentist if:
- An ulcer lasts more than two weeks
- You have multiple sores appearing at once
- You have difficulty eating, drinking or speaking
- The sore is getting worse or more painful
- There are signs of infection such as swelling or pus
Tooth Club offers full Invisalign support throughout your treatment, including help managing common side effects like ulcers and gum irritation.