Invisalign clear aligners are custom-designed for each patient. Therefore, they should fit both snugly and relatively comfortably on your teeth. But what should you do if your Invisalign aligner does not fit? This blog post explains why the problem may be occurring and what you can do to get your treatment back on track.
You Are Wearing a New Aligner
Issues with the fit of Invisalign are most common when a patient first transitions to a new aligner. It has not yet had time to move your teeth, so it might feel somewhat tight. It might even resist you when you try to slide it onto your teeth. It could also be prone to popping out of place.
In most cases, this problem is easy to fix with Invisalign chewies. The chewies are soft, spongy cylinders that you should bite down on for 10 – 15 minutes. The pressure can push your aligners into place and help to keep them there. Your dentist might provide you with some chewies, but they are also readily available online and over-the-counter in many stores.
You Are Not Wearing Your Aligners Enough
Invisalign only works when the aligners are on your teeth; you should try to wear them for 20 – 22 hours each day. Failing to do so could deprive them of the opportunity to shift your teeth toward their proper positions. As a result, you might find that when you switch to a new aligner, it refuses to slide onto your teeth.
If you believe that inadequate aligner wear is adversely affecting your treatment, you might need to continue using your current aligner for a while longer before you transition to the next one. Of course, it would be best to consult your dentist before you make any decisions about what to do.
There Is a Problem with Your Aligner
In rare instances, an aligner does not fit because there is something wrong with it. Perhaps there was an error in the manufacturing process, or it might have gotten damaged at some point. It is also possible that your treatment needs some minor revisions.
If there is a problem with one of your aligners, tell your dentist. They can order a replacement or offer another solution.
Invisalign aligners should fit perfectly. If one of yours does not, you can rely on your dentist to help you resolve the issue.
Meet the Practice
The team at Gillis Dental is proud to offer Invisalign to patients in our community. If you have questions about what to expect with this innovative treatment, we are ready to provide answers. To book a consultation or learn more about how we can serve you, contact our Needham dental office at 781-202-6357.