You’re doing everything to follow your Invisalign treatment plan, but for some reason, your teeth aren’t moving as they should. What’s the problem? Why is this happening? Will it delay your results? It’s common to be concerned when your pearly whites stop tracking, but it’s usually easy to fix. If you’re not sure why this is happening, here are 3 reasons your progress may have slowed down and what you and your dentist can do to get your smile back on track.
You’re Not Wearing Your Trays Enough
The 20-22-hour wear time you’re supposed to follow is recommended for a reason. It’s not so your dentist can torture you; it’s because your teeth need help to move. Trays are designed to apply gentle pressure, so your smile comes into alignment over time. However, if you don’t wear them as often as you should, your teeth won’t get the push they need to shift.
Unless you’re eating, drinking something other than water, or cleaning your trays, they should always be in your mouth.
You Have One or More Stubborn Teeth
Teeth often have a mind of their own. Some move seamlessly, while others stand firm and refuse to shift. Your dentist can’t predict this, but they can do something about it. If this is happening, they can incorporate Invisalign attachments or buttons, depending on your situation. Attachments help your trays grip your teeth better so they can guide your smile into the right place. Buttons affix to your aligners and anchor rubber bands when your bite isn’t moving as it should. Either option can get your teeth shifting in the right direction.
You’re Not Taking Care of Your Aligners
If you cringe at how your aligners taste when you reinsert them, you’re probably not cleaning them properly. Neglecting proper care of your trays can make them less desirable to wear. Saliva, bacteria, plaque, and food particles can build up and make them smell and taste bad over time. This can delay treatment because you’re not wearing them for the recommended 20-22 hours.
A good oral hygiene routine and regular tray cleaning can keep them healthy and fresh while also ensuring they remain discreet.
Tracking issues can happen while wearing Invisalign, but if you want to keep them from delaying your treatment, talk to your dentist about what you can do to keep things moving.
About the Author
Dr. Cornelia Dadaciu completed a six-year dentistry program at the Ovidius University School of Dentistry. She moved to the U.S. and earned her second dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University School of Dentistry. At Delray Beach Smile Design, she and our team offer Invisalign so patients’ smiles look and feel healthier and more beautiful than before. If you are interested in clear aligners and want to learn whether they’re right for you, call us at (561) 404–4804 to schedule an appointment.