Clear aligners like Invisalign® have transformed orthodontic treatment, offering a convenient, nearly invisible option for straightening teeth. However, while clear aligners are more comfortable and flexible than traditional braces, they also require a higher level of responsibility and attention to detail. Without proper care and commitment, patients can make mistakes that compromise their results or even prolong their treatment timeline. In this article, we’ll explore the most common clear aligner mistakes and, most importantly, how to avoid them.
Not Wearing Aligners for the Recommended Time
One of the biggest mistakes patients make is not wearing their aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day. Clear aligners are removable, which is a benefit—but this flexibility comes with the responsibility of consistent wear.
If you frequently remove your aligners for social events, sports, or meals and forget to put them back in, your teeth won’t move as planned. Skipping hours here and there can set your treatment back by days or even weeks.
How to Avoid It:
Set phone alarms or reminders to put your aligners back in after eating or brushing. You can also track your wear time with mobile apps or a treatment diary. Remember, aligners only work when they’re in your mouth.
Eating and Drinking with Aligners In
Another common mistake is eating or drinking anything other than plain water while wearing your aligners. Hot drinks like coffee or tea can warp the plastic, and food can stain or crack the trays. Worse, eating with aligners in traps food particles against your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
How to Avoid It:
Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. Keep your aligner case with you at all times so you have a clean, safe place to store them when needed.
Not Cleaning Aligners Properly
Some patients assume that rinsing aligners with water is enough, but this is a mistake. Without proper cleaning, clear aligners can develop bacteria, plaque buildup, and bad odors. They can also stain, making them more noticeable and less hygienic.
How to Avoid It:
Clean your aligners at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush (separate from your regular toothbrush) and mild, clear soap. Avoid using toothpaste as it can scratch the aligners. You can also use recommended cleaning crystals or solutions to keep them fresh. Learn more about proper aligner care on our Clear Aligners 101 page.
Skipping Aligner Trays Too Soon
Some patients are eager to speed up their treatment and may jump to the next aligner tray before their orthodontist recommends. Unfortunately, this can cause teeth to move too quickly, leading to pain, improper alignment, or even damage to the roots.
How to Avoid It:
Always follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding how long to wear each aligner. If you’re unsure, ask during your check-up. Skipping trays will not shorten your treatment—it will likely prolong it or result in unsatisfactory outcomes.
Failing to Use Chewies
Clear aligner “chewies” are small, soft cylinders used to help seat the aligners properly on your teeth. Some patients neglect to use them regularly, resulting in aligners that don’t fully engage with the teeth, reducing their effectiveness.
How to Avoid It:
Use your chewies several times a day, especially when you first insert a new tray. This ensures a snug fit and helps your teeth move efficiently.
Neglecting Oral Hygiene
While clear aligners make brushing and flossing easier than traditional braces, it’s still possible to overlook proper oral hygiene. Failing to brush and floss after meals can trap food particles under your aligners, causing decay and bad breath.
How to Avoid It:
Brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Carry a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss so you can clean your teeth when you’re away from home. Keeping your mouth clean is critical to a successful outcome.
Losing or Damaging Aligners
Because clear aligners are removable, it’s easy to misplace them or accidentally throw them away, especially if you wrap them in a napkin during a meal. Some patients also leave them in hot cars or expose them to heat, causing warping.
How to Avoid It:
Always store your aligners in their protective case when not wearing them. Never place them on a plate, napkin, or pocket where they can get lost or damaged. Avoid leaving them in extreme temperatures.
Missing Orthodontic Check-Ups
Even though clear aligners often require fewer in-office visits than braces, skipping appointments can lead to unnoticed issues that delay your treatment. Your orthodontist needs to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
How to Avoid It:
Make it a priority to attend all scheduled appointments. If you can’t make it, reschedule as soon as possible. Staying on track with your orthodontist ensures your treatment stays on the proper timeline.
Not Wearing Retainers Post-Treatment
A common misconception is that once aligner treatment is complete, the work is done. However, your teeth can shift back to their original positions if you don’t wear retainers as instructed.
How to Avoid It:
After completing your aligner series, follow your orthodontist’s guidelines for wearing retainers. Initially, you may need to wear them full-time, then gradually switch to nighttime wear. Retainers help maintain your new smile long-term. Explore more about retainers on our Braces 101 page.
Inconsistent Aligner Insertion and Removal
Improper insertion and removal techniques can cause aligners to crack or bend, especially if you rush the process or use too much force.
How to Avoid It:
Follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully. Use both hands to apply even pressure when inserting aligners, and gently remove them starting from the back molars to avoid flexing the trays too much.
Small Habits, Big Results
Avoiding these clear aligner mistakes can significantly improve your treatment experience and lead to faster, more predictable results. It’s all about consistency, responsibility, and working closely with your orthodontic team. Small, everyday decisions—like brushing after meals or properly storing your trays—play a big role in achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.
To explore more on how to make your aligner journey a success, check out our expert guidance on clear aligner care and maintenance.
FAQs: Clear Aligner Mistakes
1. Can I drink coffee while wearing aligners?
No, hot drinks can warp the plastic, and coffee can stain your aligners.
2. What happens if I forget to wear my aligners for a day?
Missing a day can slow your progress. Resume wearing them immediately and contact your orthodontist if it happens frequently.
3. How often should I clean my aligners?
At least twice a day, ideally every time you brush your teeth.
4. Can I chew gum with clear aligners?
No, gum can stick to the aligners and damage them.
5. What if I lose an aligner tray?
Contact your orthodontist immediately. They may advise you to use the previous or next tray until a replacement arrives.
6. Do I need to brush after every snack?
Yes, you should brush your teeth after eating or snacking before reinserting your aligners to prevent cavities and plaque buildup.
7. Can I switch to a new tray early if it feels loose?
No, only switch trays on the schedule provided by your orthodontist.
8. Are chewies really necessary?
Yes, chewies help seat aligners properly for effective tooth movement.
9. Can clear aligners crack from improper removal?
Yes, always remove aligners carefully from the back molars to prevent bending or cracking.
10. Is wearing retainers forever necessary?
Wearing retainers as prescribed is essential to maintain your results. Some level of lifetime retainer wear is usually recommended.
Avoiding these common clear aligner mistakes will help you stay on track, minimize complications, and ensure that your investment in a beautiful smile pays off. Stick to the guidelines, partner closely with your orthodontist, and you’ll achieve the best possible outcome.