Is It Possible to Have An Allergic Reaction to Invisalign® Clear Aligners?
Our Milton dentist has the answers
A popular modern alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign® clear aligners straighten and correct mild to moderate cases of malocclusion or crooked teeth.
Patients are required to wear a series of these aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily over a period of several months to over a year, in order for their teeth to successfully and gradually shift into their proper positions.
Perhaps the best part about Invisalign® clear aligners is that they are virtually undetectable - meaning that no one else really needs to know you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment but you! And, of course, contrary to traditional metal and wire braces, these aligners are removable for comfortable eating, drinking and dental hygiene practices.
But it’s normal for anyone considering Invisalign® to have some questions about the treatment, with a common concern being whether Invisalign® can cause an allergic reaction. Luckily, our dentist in Milton is here to address that today!
Are allergic reactions to Invisalign® clear aligners possible?
Simply put, yes, an allergic reaction to Invisalign® is a possibility - but the good news is that it’s extremely unlikely. Most people have no problems with Invisalign® and its materials, with only a minuscule percentage of wearers experiencing nothing more serious than some mild irritation.
For the very few that do experience a negative reaction with Invisalign®, this tends to come in the form of a salivary issue - with the mouth experiencing a dryer environment (or “xerostomia”) which can make wearing the device uncomfortable and irritating.
Other people may experience an allergic reaction to the actual plastic materials used in the aligners.
This will typically cause the mouth to feel more sensitive than usual, with potential tingling or itching of the teeth, gums and tongue. In the most rare of cases, there may even be instances of some twinges of pain or more serious levels of discomfort - in which case it is important to discontinue use. The most serious, yet extremely unlikely and rare potential reaction may be caused by a severe allergy to plastic, and can involve breathing problems, hyperventilation issues, and chest pain - in which case removal of the aligners and prompt medical attention would be necessary. With any kind of serious or uncomfortable reaction to Invisalign®, a patient should also let our dentist know about their issues immediately.
If you are particular fearful or concerned that you will experience an allergic reaction or irritation to Invisalign®, our dentist at Southview would be happy to conduct a plastic test, and will ask you to take a small piece of the material used in Invisalign® aligners to be taped to the skin and worn for a few days. If you experience any sort of skin reaction to the material over this period of time, then another form of orthodontic treatment can be recommended to you and discussed.
What to do if you suffer dry mouth from Invisalign® treatment
Patients who experience xerostomia with the use of their aligners can relieve their symptoms through mouth-moistening efforts, such as drinking more water (ideally cold water). It’s okay if you must exceed the recommended eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, as well - if you find that this successfully provides you with relief from your dry mouth. Besides, drinking more water is one of the healthiest changes you can make for your smile and your body!
Ready to begin your journey to a perfectly straight smile with Invisalign®?
Or, have any additional concerns regarding any side effects with treatment? Our dentist would be pleased to consult with you!
Contact our Milton dental clinic today to schedule your Invisalign® consultation.
