Lost Your Invisalign Tray? Here’s Exactly What to Do Step-by-Step
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If you lose an item, such as a notebook, you can wait for several days to let your memory tackle the task. This isn’t the case with clear aligners. A delay can lead to teeth shifting and relapse, so you risk losing all progress and extending the treatment time. Moving to the next set of trays may not be a good idea either—they may not fit properly and could harm your tooth roots. We’ll explain what to do if you lose Invisalign tray, so read on even if you didn’t: this data may be your future life savior!
Immediate Steps to Take if You Lost Your Invisalign Tray
When you start Invisalign treatment, your leading orthodontist will likely warn you about the need to wear aligners for 20–22 hours a day. If you sabotage the instructions, your teeth may start to drift. However, even the most diligent patients can accidentally threw away Invisalign trays. Here’s what to do in case you can’t find your clear aligner.
- Don’t Panic: Search Thoroughly First
Though discovering you’ve lost Invisalign tray might be shocking, try to keep your head cool. If you lead an active lifestyle, it’s easy to automatically put your tray on the edge of the sink, on the bathroom shelf, or elsewhere. Take a deep breath and search. Check twice if you have pets—they can play with a “mysterious something” or drag it into their cozy nook. If your aligners are damaged by sharp, mischievous teeth, neither sterilize nor put them on.
- Call Your Orthodontist Immediately
If you don’t find an intact aligner, ask your orthodontist for a professional recommendation. Don’t search for advice on the Web—only your doctor can tell whether you need a replacement pair, can move to the next set, or return to the previous one. This step can help you prevent delays and additional expenses.
Seeking an expert solution from your leading doctor on time is the best way to align with your treatment plan.
Should You Wear Your Previous Tray or Move to the Next One?
Both options are possible, but consult your orthodontist first. Don’t alter the treatment plan by yourself: the trays are designed for subsequent use, and your attempts may negatively affect the process. It’s reasonable to wait for a response from your orthodontist.
How Much Does a Replacement Invisalign Tray Cost?
A replacement aligner typically costs the same as your lost one, unless you wait too long, and your teeth substantially change their positions. In the latter case, you might need to go through an extra 3D dental scanning procedure.
Tips to Avoid Losing Your Aligner Trays
Develop several healthy habits to be consistent in your Invisalign routine:
- Always store your aligners in a designated case—this mental anchor will save you from losing them.
- If you leave home for a while, take the case with you. You might crave a cup of coffee or a mouthwatering snack.
- It’s best to have several cases for your aligners in different colors: one for home use and another for taking them outdoors.
- Never use a napkin or tissue to wrap your aligners. There are numerous cases where the waiter/waitress disposed of them, thinking it was garbage. Besides, you can unintentionally bend the plastic if you throw the wrapped tray in the bag—it might not be as sturdy as your other stuff.
- Appoint a single spot for your aligners at home and memorize it as ABC. You can take them off in the bathroom and keep them in a case until you finish a meal and brush your teeth.
- Never throw away your previous trays. Sometimes, you might need them if you lose your current set.
Even if you didn’t manage to keep your aligners safe and sound, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for professional advice. If you can’t reach them, call a dental office where your orthodontist accepts—a receptionist can have an additional phone number for emergencies.
Conclusion
Knowing what happens if you lose an Invisalign tray can avert you from overreacting in a stressful situation and avoid possible mistakes. Don’t take any measures before talking to your orthodontist. An experienced doctor monitors the course of your treatment and knows the ropes of such misfortunes, so you’ll get a comprehensive answer on what to do to continue the process safely. You can get a replacement aligner, return to the previous pair, or proceed to the next one—all based on your unique case.
If you don’t want to lose aligners, store them in a special case and keep it in a particular spot at home. Buying an additional Invisalign case for your bag is preferable. Never wrap your clear aligners in a napkin: you may occasionally throw them away or damage the plastic. If you have any more questions about aligners, please contact us, and our responsive team will clarify what bothers you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my teeth shift if I lost my tray?
Yes. Since your teeth aren’t in a stable position yet, they can start shifting in a day or two after you lose aligners. Call your orthodontist for professional advice so as not to compromise your treatment timeline.
Can I skip a tray if I lost one?
This is possible if you are close to the end of that aligner’s wear cycle. Always contact your orthodontist prior to reaching out to the next tray if you lose the current one.
Do I need to keep my old Invisalign trays?
Yes, we recommend keeping your previous Invisalign trays (the ones preceding those you are wearing now). Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe returning to them if you lose your trays.
How long does it take to get a replacement?
It may take 2–4 weeks for your doctor to hand over the replacement trays. They have to order aligners and wait till they are manufactured. Each set is customized to match your teeth, which explains the need to wait a bit.
Additional Resources
Examine the workflow of the fabrication of clear aligners by the thermoforming process.
