Invisible Adjustments: Does Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?

Invisalign continues to gain popularity as a more comfortable and discreet orthodontic alternative to traditional braces. However, because there are no wires or bands that can be adjusted, this method sometimes requires a little extra help to realign your teeth or bite effectively. Sometimes, your provider must bond small bumps or “attachments” to exert the proper pressure to move them as needed.

Although they may be required ongoing, these additions are typically removed after completing your Invisalign treatment. If you’re worried that getting these lumps taken off will be painful, continue reading to learn why you can set your mind at ease!

What Are Invisalign Attachments?

If you have unexpectedly stubborn teeth that won’t shift as intended, your orthodontist might need to redesign your trays to include attachments. These small bumps of composite resin are bonded directly to your enamel to provide additional anchors that strengthen the grip of your trays. They’re color-matched to your natural teeth, so they’re hardly noticeable, but they give your provider an enhanced manipulation of movement to complete your treatment on time.     

Typically, Invisalign attachments are only necessary to provide additional anchorage for your trays, to bolster the fit so they stay on your teeth more easily, and to increase their efficacy in straightening your smile.

Does Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?

Hooray! It’s been 12 to 18 months, and you’ve just removed your last set of Invisalign trays because your treatment is complete. As eager as you may be to have the small bumps removed from your enamel, it’s normal to worry that the process might be painful.

Fortunately, that’s not the case! They exist outside the protective outer layer of your teeth, so no invasive surgeries are needed to remove them. Instead, your orthodontist can apply a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Then, they’ll use special instruments to gently file down the lumps of resin until the surface of your tooth is even again. Finally, they’ll polish your teeth so you can leave the office with a brighter, straighter grin.

How Long Does It Take to Remove Invisalign Attachments?

You might wonder whether you must undergo a long procedure to remove these miniature mounds, but typically, it doesn’t take much time. There’s a good chance that your provider can remove your attachments in 15 minutes or less, but it all depends on your unique situation. Patients who only needed one or two small bumps won’t be sitting in the dental chair as long as those who required additions to multiple teeth.

Now that you know more about Invisalign attachments, you can see they’re nothing to fear!

About the Practice

At Wigal Orthodontics, you and your family benefit from two experts dedicated to improving your quality of life by enhancing your dental condition. Dr. Timothy Wigal and Dr. Alex Kluemper are experienced in working with people of all ages and offer various orthodontic services to meet your unique needs. They are both proud members of the American Association of Orthodontics, among several other prestigious organizations, so you can trust that your smile is in skilled hands. They are committed to ongoing education, so you receive the most up-to-date services using state-of-the-art equipment. If you’re considering Invisalign, you can request an appointment on the website or call (740) 281-0445.