Teeth Shifting - sore gums

[Mr. Z]

I'm about to go into tray set number three and i can already tell that my teeth are moving. My bite has changed and i'm now starting to see and feel gaps forming in my teeth where there were none before. I

n particular, a space between my last upper molar and the next tooth has opened quite dramatically. It used to be that i could hardly even floss between the two. Frequently, I would break floss trying to get in-between. But, now it's a pretty big gap and is a major food trap. The problem is that the gum in the gap is super sensitive and has become sore. I have to be careful flossing back there, if i go too hard it's quite painful, also chewing a little gingerly on that side. Is this normal? Have others experienced this?

Wondering if the gum just needs some time to toughen up or whether i should be concerned.

[kezzakattami]

I had sensitive gums where teeth had moved and noticed differences flossing like you, really early. I think it's perfectly normal, not to worry.

[Mr. Z]

Ok, thanks. That's good to know

[Phantom Muse]

Mr. Z- I read your post the day you posted and had nothing to add... until today when I started experiencing gum soreness between two back teeth! Good to know it is nothing to worry about, but a salt water rinse every time I have brushed today has helped already.

Keeps me on my toes these days...

[Mr. Z]

Hey Phantom,

I tried the saltwater rinse as well and was surprised at how effective it was. It helped almost immediately.

I'm not really enjoying having this gap, it's painful and i'm no longer even chewing on that side. Think I'm going to mention it at my next dental appointment and have them take a look at it. Probably is nothing, but, is definitely a nuisance that i wasn't anticipating. Still can't believe how quick the gap opened!

[Phantom Muse]

To me, one of the most interesting things about this whole Invisalign process is the unpredictability of tooth movement (and the fact that you can take the trays out and see it up close!) I knew I needed space created in order for my upper front teeth to slip into their proper place, but to have a space in the upper back open up one day before I start a new tray is surprising. I am just trying to take it all into stride... It does help to read about everyone else's experiences, though, because at least I don't feel like something is wrong!