Invisalign aligners offer some of the most unique advantages – flexibility and comfort being just a few. Crafted without protruding brackets and wires that rub against soft oral tissues, these trays appear sleek and snug-fitting, at least in most cases. Unfortunately, there are times when Invisalign aligners may not sit correctly on your teeth, leaving you to wonder why. Keep reading to discover why this happens and what you can do to fix the problem and avoid aligner replacement.
What Can Cause Invisalign Aligners to Fit Poorly?
There are two specific instances in which your Invisalign aligners will seem as if they do not fit properly: when you initially receive your trays and when you swap them out for the next set in the series. This is normal, as your teeth will need time to shift to match the design of the aligner.
However, if you notice that your Invisalign is still not seated correctly, it could be that:
- Your teeth are not shifting like your dentist expected them to. This might require additional attachments or adjustments to ensure they keep moving toward the desired destination.
- You are not wearing your trays 20-22 hours a day. Continuous wear (except when you are eating or drinking, or when you are cleaning your trays) is necessary if you want to avoid a delay.
- There are gaps that exist between your aligners and teeth.
- You are not switching out your trays as often as you should (1-2 weeks), so they become worn out.
How Can You Improve the Fit of Your Invisalign Trays?
If you want to avoid asking your dentist for a replacement tray, as well as avoid delaying the results of a straighter, more beautiful smile, you’ll need to adopt healthy practices to ensure your aligners fit properly. You can do this by:
- Using your Invisalign chewies, which are cylinder-shaped cotton rolls that you bite down on. For 3-5 minutes, you can use your chewies to help move your Invisalign aligners into their proper place, snugly against your teeth.
- Making sure the only time you remove your trays is when preparing to eat a meal, drink a beverage, or clean your aligners. Abide by the 20-22-hour rule.
- Asking your dentist if you should return to the previous pair of Invisalign aligners while waiting to see if your teeth will begin to shift.
- Working with your dentist to determine if you need replacement aligners or if an adjustment is required to keep you on track.
Invisalign is a great option that offers faster and often more predictable results. Do not be discouraged if your trays do not fit properly right away. By making a few simple changes and abiding by your dentist’s instructions, you can move through treatment feeling comfortable and confident in the results that lie ahead.
About the Author
Dr. Aaron Swingdorf is an Invisalign Preferred Provider who leads the team at Chaska Dental Center. Recognizing that many patients struggle to understand what a proper fit feels like initially, he can offer helpful tips and products that are designed to improve comfort and ensure custom aligners fit snugly for maximum movement and results. If you are worried your trays are not fitting right, contact us at (952) 448-4151 or visit our website to schedule a consultation with Dr. Swingdorf today.
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