Invisalign uses clear aligners to move teeth into their proper position. Many patients find them to be the most convenient option for orthodontic treatment because they are removable. Of course, this perk also increases the risk of losing an aligner. You’d be surprised at how many end up folded in a napkin and tossed in the school trashcan after lunch.
So, what happens if a teen loses their Invisalign aligner? Let’s explore the next steps so that there is little to no delay in progress.
There is No Need to Panic
Losing an aligner happens quite often, especially for active teens who are juggling a busy schedule with school, sports, and various social activities. While it is not the ideal situation, there is no reason to panic. There is an easy fix. If you find yourself here, the key is to act swiftly. Aligners need to be worn to prevent any delays in treatment timelines.
The Importance of Aligners
To understand why it is so important that the aligners get replaced promptly, you have to know how Invisalign works.
After taking 3D images of your teeth, a set of aligners will be designed that will transform your smile. Each aligner will be worn for a specific amount of time, generally one to two weeks, before moving on to the next one.
Since treatment only occurs when the aligners are in your mouth, they must be worn for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours every single day. Therefore, if an aligner is lost and not replaced, teeth will shift and veer off track, making the next one challenging to wear and less effective.
This is why taking action right away is necessary.
What to Do If an Aligner is Lost
When an aligner is lost, there are a few things you can do—starting with the following steps.
Wear the Previous Aligner
If your teen only recently switched to the lost one, locate and wear the previous aligner. Not only will this prevent teeth from shifting, but it should also remain a good fit. Bear in mind that this is a very temporary solution until you contact your orthodontist.
However, if it has been a while since this change was made, simply move on to the next step.
Contact Your Orthodontist Right Away
As soon as you realize the aligner is missing, give us a call. We can assess where your teen is in their treatment plan and determine the best course of action. In some instances, they may be able to just move on to the next aligner. In others, a replacement may need to be ordered.
This will vary for each teen. And timing plays a significant role.
Do Not Skip Ahead Without Direction
It is not advisable to proceed to the next aligner without being instructed to do so by your orthodontic team.
Preventing Lost Aligners
Despite prevention efforts, it is still possible to lose an aligner. We encourage patients to always place them in a case when eating or drinking anything other than water. Do not wrap them in napkins or place them on your lunch tray. Also, do not carry loose aligners in pockets or backpacks.
Getting into a routine can make wearing and storing aligners second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my teen only wear one aligner if the other is lost?
No, it is not recommended. Invisalign aligners are designed to work together. Wearing only the top or bottom can result in uneven movement.
Is there a cost to replace Invisalign aligners?
Replacement policies vary greatly depending on the treatment plan and stage of treatment. All costs, if any, will be discussed before moving forward.
At Marigold Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are here to support your teen’s smile every step of the way in and around Maplewood, NJ. If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign or if you have lost an aligner, contact our office today.