Clear Aligners and a Sore Spot on the Cheek

Clear Aligners and a Sore Spot on the Cheek

A tray edge that repeatedly rubs your cheek deserves a call to the treating office. Mild adjustment sensations and an actual tissue injury are different concerns. The clinician needs to know whether the appliance is sharp, damaged, or no longer fitting as expected.

Describe what you can see

Mention the tray number, when the irritation started, and whether the edge appears cracked. Tell the team if an attachment changed or the tray stopped seating properly. Keep the appliance available so it can be assessed. Avoid extensive trimming or heating to change its shape.

Follow the case-specific advice

The office can explain whether a temporary protective measure is appropriate and when the fit should be checked. Do not jump forward through the tray sequence or abandon treatment for several days without guidance. Continue gentle oral cleaning and report an ulcer that persists or worsens. A comfortable fit supports the ability to follow the prescribed wear schedule, so irritation is useful information to address. It should not be treated as a challenge you must tolerate silently or solve through an improvised appliance adjustment.