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My Invisalign® Aligner Doesn't Fit: What to Do When Trays Aren't Tracking
Invisalign® clear aligners are a popular and effective solution for straightening teeth. However, a common concern among patients is when a new aligner doesn't seem to fit correctly. This article explains the reasons why your Invisalign® aligner might not fit perfectly and provides practical solutions to resolve the issue.
Why Your Invisalign® Aligner Isn't Fitting: A 'Tracking' Problem
If your new aligner isn't fitting snugly, don't panic. This is a common issue known in orthodontics as a "tracking" problem. It means your teeth have not moved into the exact position the new aligner was designed for.
You might notice a visible gap between the edge of your tooth and the aligner, particularly on one or more teeth. The main reasons for poor tracking are:
- Insufficient Wear Time: This is the most common cause. Not wearing your aligners for the prescribed 20-22 hours a day means your teeth haven't had enough time to complete the movements from the previous tray.
- Complex Tooth Movements: Some teeth, like rotated canines or small incisors, are naturally more stubborn and may resist movement, causing them to fall behind the treatment plan.
- Attachment Issues: If a dental attachment isn't fully engaging with its corresponding slot in the aligner, the necessary force won't be applied correctly.
Practical Solutions for an Ill-Fitting Aligner
If your new Invisalign® aligner doesn't fit perfectly, there are several effective solutions your orthodontist may recommend.
Using 'Chewies' to Seat Your Aligners
The first and most common recommendation is to use "Chewies." These are small, soft cylindrical cushions made of a spongy plastic material. By biting down on a Chewie and moving it around your arch for several minutes a day, you apply gentle, even pressure that helps to fully seat the aligner over your teeth. This action eliminates air gaps and ensures the aligner is engaging properly to deliver the intended forces.
Back-Tracking to a Previous Aligner
If Chewies don't resolve the gap, it's a clear sign your teeth are not ready for the new tray. In this case, your orthodontist will likely instruct you to go back to wearing your previous set of aligners for a few more days or even another week. This allows your teeth the extra time they need to "catch up" to their planned position, preparing them to accept the new aligners properly.
When a Professional Adjustment is Needed
In some cases, a minor physical issue can prevent the aligner from fitting. Your orthodontist might perform a slight reshaping of a tooth's surface (interproximal reduction or IPR) to create a tiny amount of space, or they may carefully trim a small area of the aligner itself to remove an interference point without compromising its structural integrity.
The Golden Rule: Communicate With Your Orthodontist
Regardless of the reason for the poor fit, the most important rule is to contact your orthodontist's office immediately. Do not force the aligner or decide on your own to move to the next one. Prompt communication is essential for the success of your Invisalign® treatment, allowing your provider to make the necessary adjustments to keep your treatment on track.
Are you also experiencing discomfort? Check out our dedicated article on managing Invisalign® pain and soreness.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Ill-Fitting Aligners
"Not tracking" means your teeth have not moved as predicted by the treatment plan, so the aligner doesn't fit snugly. This is usually visible as a small air gap between the edge of your tooth and the aligner. It's a sign that your treatment is falling behind schedule, most often due to insufficient wear time.
No, a new set of aligners should feel very tight and snug. A loose feeling usually indicates you may have accidentally skipped a tray or that your teeth have moved past the current stage. Conversely, at the end of a 1-2 week wear period, it's normal for the current aligner to feel more "passive" or slightly looser as your teeth have completed that stage's movement.
If just one tooth isn't tracking, focus on using your Chewies specifically on that tooth for several minutes, multiple times a day. This targeted pressure can often help the aligner engage and get the tooth back on track. If the gap doesn't improve after a day or two, contact your orthodontist.
No, you should never try to force an aligner that clearly doesn't fit. This can be painful and may damage the aligner or your teeth. The proper way to ensure a snug fit is by using Chewies to apply gentle, consistent pressure. If the tray still doesn't fit, it means the teeth are not in the correct position, and you need to consult your orthodontist for instructions.