When it’s time to eat, you’ll need to take off your Invisalign. You may leave them on the counter or wrap them in a napkin, then start to dig in. But what if once you finish your meal, your aligners aren’t where you put them? Missing trays can leave you worried, but you should act fast to avoid delays. Here’s what you should do right away and how your dentist is here to help.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Aligners?
You should first take a breath. It’s easy to get worked up, but take a minute to look at the surrounding area. Check small crevices that your Invisalign might’ve slid into. Hopefully your search is fruitful, but if it isn’t, then you should call your dentist right away. They can help you determine your next steps.
If it is nearing the time to switch to a new pair of trays, then you may be able to swap to them sooner than expected. If not, then you may need to go back to your previous pair. This will help preserve your progress while a new set is ordered.
Will Losing My Aligners Affect My Treatment?
Losing your Invisalign once may not affect your treatment. You might not have any delays or have them be very minor, especially if it’s just a one-time thing. However, if this is something that you consistently do, then your results may be pushed back. You need to get the full 22-hour wear time and advance to your next pair of aligners when directed. By messing with this schedule too much, you may wait longer for your straighter smile.
How Can I Avoid This Situation in the Future?
The best way you can avoid this situation in the future is by adding a couple of new habits to your routine. These are some easy tips that you can follow:
- Only put your trays in their designated case and double-check to bring one if you know you’ll remove your aligners soon. Avoid using napkins or setting them on the counter, as they can be thrown away or knocked off.
- Keep a spare case in your bag, backpack, car, or wherever else you can think of! Having an extra nearby can help you ensure you have a backup close by.
Stick to these tips, and you can hopefully avoid losing any more aligners. That way, you set yourself up for a smoother journey with your Invisalign.
About the Practice
At Soleil Dental Mesquite, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Diana Vazquez and Dr. Jose Aldana. We are happy to help the local community get the straighter smiles they love with a reliable treatment like Invisalign. We stick with you throughout, so you can feel confident knowing what to do to avoid delays. If you have lost your clear aligners, the fastest way to contact us is by calling us at (972) 288-3200.