Does Invisalign Cause Headaches?

Invisalign clear aligners are an invisible alternative to traditional braces that gradually shift your teeth over a period six to 12 months, on average. While you may experience mild headaches each time you receive a new set of aligners, any discomfort should subside after a few days.

In some cases, Invisalign may not be the cause of your headaches. Certain conditions, such as TMJ and bruxism, can lead to painful tension headaches if left untreated.

The Link Between Headaches & Shifting Teeth

Invisalign works using a series of aligners that slowly move your teeth over a set period of time. Full treatment often requires 20 to 30 aligners for both the upper and lower teeth, but this can vary depending on the severity of your bite problems.

Each aligner must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. When you get a new set of aligners, they may feel tight and stiff the first few days. As your teeth begin to move, you may experience what is known as a tension headache.

According to the World Health Organization, one in 20 adults experience headaches daily, with the tension headache being the most common. Tension headaches are thought to be caused by muscular contractions in the face, neck and head.

Shifting teeth can spur muscular contractions that place strain these areas of your body. While the goal of Invisalign is to move your teeth into a better alignment, the path to getting there could cause temporary discomfort.

You can take ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers to help ease tension headaches caused by new Invisalign plastic aligners. If your headaches last more than a few days, contact your dentist. While your dentist should be carefully monitoring your treatment, you may be more sensitive to tooth movement than other patients.

Candidates for Invisalign Clear Braces

If your tension headaches do not subside, it’s possible that Invisalign is not the best option for you. Invisalign is designed to correct mild malocclusions, including:

· Crowded teeth

· Spaces between teeth

· Overbite

· Underbite

· Crossbite

Invisalign is also a good option for adults who’ve had mild relapses following traditional braces.

If you have more moderate to severe bite problems, a different orthodontic treatment may be better suited to your needs. Your dentist should examine your mouth to determine if Invisalign is right for you.

Tension Headaches and Your Oral Health

Tension headaches could also be a sign that you’re suffering from an oral health problem. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition caused by strain on your temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull. This stress can lead to painful tension headaches, as well as:

· Jaw popping or clicking

· Facial pain and swelling

· Neck, back and shoulder aches

· Difficulty chewing

· Difficulty opening and closing your mouth

Tension headaches can also be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism). Many adults unknowingly grind their teeth while sleeping. Stress and anxiety are common triggers of bruxism. In addition to tension headaches, adults who grind their teeth may notice:

· Flat, broken, chipped or loose teeth

· Tooth sensitivity

· Pain or soreness of the jaw and face

· A tired, tight jaw

· Earaches or ringing in the ears

To stop tension headaches related to these conditions, you will need to work with an experienced dentist who can spot signs of bruxism and TMJ, and then determine the best course of treatment.

Choosing the Right Dentist

The best way to prevent and properly treat tension headaches related to Invisalign or oral health problems is to choose the right dentist. Look for a dentist who:

· Takes a holistic approach to dental care: If you have headaches or other painful problems, your dentist should do their best to rule out dental issues that could be causing you discomfort.

· Values patient education: Your dentist should take the time to explain how your dental health and overall health are connected. They should also provide you with tips for keeping your mouth healthy at home.

· Puts their patients first: Regardless of the practice size, your dentist should take as much time as needed to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Reading patient reviews can give you a better sense of a dentist’s personality and approach. You can also ask your family, friends and co-workers for recommendations on a good dentist. Some practices offer complimentary consultations for Invisalign and other services, so you can decide if the dentist is a good fit for you before committing to treatment.