While Invisalign trays are famous for their subtlety, that quality has a downside. Clear plastic aligners are rather hard to spot, so patients will often misplace them over time. Still, you don’t need to worry if you lose your Invisalign trays; it’s possible to address the issue. Your San Jose dentist can even outline what to do in that scenario, ensuring your treatment stays on track. Just keep reading to learn the steps you should take if you’ve lost an Invisalign aligner.
What to Do If You’ve Lost an Aligner
A lost Invisalign tray isn’t ideal, but it’s also not unsolvable. You can resolve things by following these three steps:
1. Don’t Panic
For starters, you mustn’t panic over your missing aligner. Fear and worry will only make the situation worse; they won’t help. Going without your tray for a while also won’t ruin your treatment, so there’s no need to “blow up” or get antsy. The most you’ll have to deal with is a slight delay in Invisalign progress; you can still get the straight smile you want.
2. Retrace Your Steps
Once you’re nice and calm, your next move should be to retrace your steps. There’s a good chance you’ll find your tray in one of the last places you had it. For example, examine small spaces that the aligner might’ve slipped into – the area beneath your couch cushion, the pockets of old pants, your kitchen trash can, etc. Maybe you’ll find the tray in a rather surprising spot!
3. See Your Dentist
If you really can’t find your tray, the next step is to see your dentist. They can provide you with a replacement once they’ve confirmed your situation, as well as where you were in treatment. While you wait to see them, you’ll just have to wear your previous aligner as a temporary substitute. Doing so shouldn’t disrupt your treatment or cause problems.
(Of course, you could also move to your next tray set if you were only a day or two away from it. Just make sure to ask your dentist for permission before doing so.)
How to Avoid Lost Aligners
If you want to avoid lost aligners going forward, try adopting these helpful tips and tricks:
- Keep your aligners in a dedicated space when you aren’t wearing them.
- Unless it’s absolutely necessary, don’t remove your trays from your mouth.
- When removing your trays, avoid placing them on a lunch tray or in a napkin.
Even if you lose your Invisalign aligner, things will be okay. You can trust the steps above – and your local dentist – to fix your problem!
About the Author
Dr. Kelly Thanh-Vo is a dentist based in San Jose, CA, having earned her DDS from the University of the Pacific. Ever since her start in dental work, she’s always strived to give patients comprehensive and effective dentistry. That means you can trust her (and her team) to provide the preventive, cosmetic, or restorative care your smile needs! Today, Dr. Thanh-Vo practices at her self-titled clinic and is reachable on her website and by phone at (408)-972-2835.