My Invisalign Aligner is Not Fitting Right: What Should I Do?
When a person wants to straighten their teeth, they have two main options — traditional metal braces and clear aligners. Invisalign is the top manufacturer of clear aligners. Many patients love using the clear aligners, as they are practically invisible. They are easy to use and can be removed when necessary.
However, sometimes patients have issues with these aligners. One of the biggest issues with Invisalign aligners is the fact that the fit can sometimes be off. The aligner may be too tight or too loose, leading to gaps and a poor fit. When this happens, the aligner will not work as well.
Also, you need to make sure you are adhering to your treatment plan. If you are not wearing your aligners for at least 20 hours a day, they will not straighten your teeth like they are supposed to.
Sometimes teeth move too quickly or slowly. This means aligners can become too tight or too loose. When this happens, your orthodontist may need to make some adjustments.
Sometimes dealing with a fit issue just takes time. When you get a new set of aligners, you may need to get used to them. To get your aligner to fit more snugly, try these tips:
- Assess the fit. If your aligner is causing you issues, remove it and carefully examine it. Look for any visible damage or warping. Make sure it is clean and free of debris as well.
- Try reinserting. Sometimes aligners may not fit properly due to improper insertion. Reinsert the aligner, ensuring it covers your teeth completely. Use your fingers to gently press it into place. If you feel a gap in the back of your teeth, remove the aligner, bend it, and squeeze it with your fingers to close the opening more tightly. This will make it fit more snugly over your teeth. It is normal to experience some pressure and tightness initially, but there should not be pain.
- Avoid DIY adjustments. Do not attempt to adjust or modify the aligner on your own. This can lead to further problems and may affect your treatment.
- Contact your orthodontist. When all else fails, talk to your orthodontist about the issue. They can provide specific instructions on how to address the issue, so follow their guidance. They may need to schedule an appointment to assess the problem.
- Get your treatment plan updated. In some situations, patients can experience severe pain or discomfort if their aligners are not fitting correctly. This usually happens when the teeth do not move as fast as your doctor expects. Talk to your orthodontist about getting an updated treatment plan. In many cases, they can adjust or replace your aligners.
Contact Our Ypsilanti Dental Office About Invisalign Today
Invisalign aligners can sometimes have issues with fit. In most cases, the problem resolves itself the more you wear the aligner. In some cases, though, you may need to have your orthodontist make some adjustments.
Have issues or questions about Invisalign? Let the team at Comprehensive Dentistry know. Our friendly team is always willing to answer your questions, so you get the care you need. Contact our Ypsilanti office today by calling (734) 480-0033 or filling out the online form.