Losing an Invisalign aligner can feel stressful, especially when you’re working hard to stay on track with treatment. Because each tray plays a key role in gradually shifting your teeth, it’s important to take quick action.
The good news is that there are clear steps you can follow to minimize disruption and keep your smile transformation moving forward.
Don’t Panic—But Act Quickly
The first thing to remember is that losing a tray is not the end of the world. Invisalign treatment is flexible, and your dentist or orthodontist can help you get back on track. The key is to act quickly. The longer you go without wearing an aligner, the more likely your teeth are to shift out of alignment.
Call Your Dentist or Orthodontist
As soon as you realize your aligner is missing, reach out to your dentist or orthodontist. They may recommend one of several solutions depending on where you are in your treatment plan:
- Moving ahead to the next set of aligners if you’re close to switching days.
- Going back to the previous set to maintain progress until a replacement can be made.
- Ordering a replacement aligner to keep your treatment consistent.
Your dental professional knows your case best, so getting their guidance is essential.
What Not to Do
It can be tempting to simply skip a tray and move on, but this may disrupt your treatment. Each aligner is carefully designed to shift your teeth in small increments, and skipping ahead without professional guidance can cause discomfort or delays. Similarly, trying to wear your aligners for fewer hours to “make up time” can prevent them from working effectively.
Preventing Lost Aligners in the Future
While accidents happen, there are a few habits that can help reduce the risk of losing an aligner:
- Always store aligners in their case when not wearing them.
- Avoid wrapping aligners in napkins or tissues, as they’re easy to throw away by mistake.
- Carry a travel case in your bag, backpack, or pocket for meals and snacks on the go.
- Keep track of your aligner schedule so you know when it’s almost time to switch trays.
By being mindful of these small steps, you can protect your investment and keep your treatment plan running smoothly.
Losing an Invisalign aligner can be frustrating, but calling your dentist promptly and following their instructions will help you stay on track toward a straighter smile.
About the Practice
At SmileWorks in Mt. Pleasant, patients of all ages receive comprehensive dental and orthodontic care in a friendly, supportive environment. Our skilled team offers a wide range of services, including Invisalign clear aligner therapy, to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.
Call us at (843) 351-6422 or request an appointment online.