Maybe you’ve heard of the saying “if the boot fits, wear it.” It’s sage advice for owning up to your mistakes, but also a pretty good slogan for Invisalign aligners. If they fit, then you should wear them for about 22 hours per day to stay on track with your treatment plan. If they don’t…well then that’s a problem that needs fixin’! Aligners that are the wrong size could prolong your treatment.
That sounds unpleasant, so how do you go about getting them refitted? Keep reading to find out!
Know What Invisalign Should Feel Like
You’re wearing a completely new oral device, so it might feel a bit strange at first. Rest assured, your customized Invisalign should fit snugly over your pearly whites, and will likely feel tight for a couple of days while your teeth shift.
That said, it’s also normal to see some small air gaps around your teeth. By the time you need to transition to your next set of trays, those gaps should be filled by your teeth’s new positions. In other words, that gap is likely intentional!
Contact Your Dentist
While there are a few tricks you can use to help a minor fit flaw work itself out, the best thing to do is simply call your dentist. Depending on the size of your Invisalign, it’s possible that trying to wear them could actually shift your teeth incorrectly or harm your dental structure. Plus, your dentist will be able to give you a definitive, professional answer and inform you about the best way to proceed.
If you do want to try those tricks mentioned first, then do this:
- Get ready to insert your tray, then push down over your front teeth first. Gently apply pressure to your molars, and after the tray settles into place, use your thumbs to smooth out the rest of the tray – like smoothing air bubbles out of a sticker.
- Bite down on Invisalign chewies for about 10 to 15 minutes per day. These sticks are specially designed to help clear aligners slip into place and fit better in your mouth.
Follow Instructions
Depending on what your dentist finds when they evaluate your Invisalign, you might be able to promptly switch to a better-fitting set or continue wearing them until it’s time to transfer to your next-step aligners. Or you’ll have to adjust your daily habits in order to meet the 22-hour wear time! Whatever the case may be, be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions. They’ll help you get back on track so you can enjoy a straighter smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Kristen LaBianca Langworthy and Dr. Dr. Mariya Harn are highly accomplished dentists with specialized training in a variety of fields, including Invisalign and orthodontics. Their goal is to make dentistry a positive experience for their patients, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you suspect your Invisalign doesn’t fit quite right. They’ll take a closer look so you won’t have to worry about it for long! To contact Dr. Langworthy and Dr. Harn’s office, call 919-762-6887.