Troubleshooting Invisalign Issues

Don’t panic—we’ve got you covered! Here’s what to do:

1. Call us ASAP to inform us and get advice tailored to your case. 📞
2. If the next set of aligners fits comfortably, wear it—but for double the usual number of days to allow your teeth to adapt.
3. If the next set feels too tight or painful, DO NOT force it in.

👉 Go back to your previous aligner and wear it until we can reorder your missing set. (Replacement costs apply.)

❌ Avoid wrapping aligners in tissue paper—they’re easily (and frequently!) mistaken for trash.

🍔 Don’t store them in food wrappers or takeaway boxes (like McDonald’s or Burger King)—you might accidentally toss them out!

🔁 Try not to remove your aligners too often during the day. The more you wear them, the less likely you are to lose them—and the better your teeth move!

To keep your treatment on track, here are two simple but important tips:

• 📦 Store your current aligners safely before opening a new set. This helps prevent two sets from being out at the same time and getting jumbled up.

• 🔍 Always check the aligner numbers—they’re printed at the bottom of each aligner. You should be wearing the same number for both your upper and lower teeth.

A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your smile journey smooth! 😄

🔎 Common reasons for aligners breaking or tearing:

• Removing your aligners with too much twisting or flexing

• Short clinical crown height (i.e. short visible teeth surfaces)

• Using your tongue to push or play with the aligners

✅ What to do next:

1. Call us ASAP to book an earlier appointment so our Orthodontic Team can assess and guide you. 📞
2. In the meantime, wear either the previous or next aligner—whichever fits better—to hold your teeth in position until your review with us.

🧊 Can’t remove your new aligners?

• Hold warm water (not hot!) in your mouth for about a minute to gently soften the plastic. Then try removing them again—slowly and evenly from the back.

🌙 First day discomfort?

• Ease into your new aligners by starting them overnight. Your teeth will begin shifting while you sleep, so it feels less tight by morning.

⚠️ Too tight or painful to insert?

• Do NOT force the next aligner in if it feels extremely tight or painful.
• Instead, go back to the previous set, and call us for further instructions. We’ll guide you on the safest next steps.
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We know it’s tempting, but please do not cut your aligners—doing so can affect their fit and function.

Here’s what to do instead:

📏 Use an emery board or fine sandpaper to gently smooth down any rough edges.

🪛 If the sharp spot is from an elastic hook, try gently bending it inward away from your lip or cheek using clean fingers or a soft tool.

⚠️ Avoid cutting or filing the elastic hook area—this may permanently damage the aligner and affect how your elastics work.

If the discomfort persists, give us a call—we’re happy to help! 😊

Sometimes, aligners can fold inwards at the edges if they aren’t seated properly. This causes a thicker margin and a smaller opening, making the aligner pop out or fit poorly.

If you notice this, gently unfold the 🐶 “dog-ear” margin and try seating the aligner again.

❌ If your aligner:

• Pops out on one side

• Fits poorly

• Causes significant pain

Do NOT force it in. Instead:

• Take a clear photo of the aligner in your mouth showing the problem area.

• Send it to us via email or call the clinic for help.

🦷 Other Possible Causes:

• New teeth may be emerging and blocking your aligners. If this happens, call us ASAP to arrange an earlier appointment.

• Some teeth can be slow movers and may lag behind, causing fit issues. Please contact our Orthodontic Team for advice.