Help! I’ve Lost My Invisalign Aligner

Losing your Invisalign aligner can be stressful, but don’t panic! Staying calm and taking the right steps can help keep your treatment on track. Here’s what to do if you lose a tray during your Invisalign journey.

Stay Calm and Check Everywhere

First, take a deep breath. Then, pause for a moment to retrace your steps and check common places where aligners are often misplaced, such as:

• Your car or purse
• Bathroom counters
• Kitchen or restaurant tables
• Napkins or paper towels (aligners often get wrapped up and tossed out accidentally)

If you find your aligner, rinse it thoroughly before placing it back in your mouth.

Call Your Dentist Right Away

If you can’t find your aligner, call your dentist as soon as possible. They will guide you on your next steps based on where you are in your treatment plan. In many cases, your dentist may advise:

• Wearing your previous aligner: This helps maintain your progress and keeps your teeth from shifting while a replacement is arranged.
• Moving on to your next set of aligners early: Depending on your treatment stage, your dentist may allow you to advance to your next tray to avoid delays.

Every treatment plan is different, so it’s important to follow your provider’s instructions rather than making changes on your own.

Avoid Skipping Wear Time

Invisalign aligners need to be worn 20–22 hours daily to ensure your treatment stays on track. Skipping even a few days can delay your progress and cause your teeth to shift, making your aligners fit improperly. That’s why it’s essential to wear your previous aligner while waiting for guidance from your dentist or until your replacement arrives.

Order a Replacement Aligner if Needed

If your dentist determines you need a replacement aligner, they will order one for you. It may take a few days to receive, but wearing your previous aligner will help maintain your progress in the meantime. Keep in mind that there may be a replacement fee, but it’s worth it to keep up with your treatment.

Tips to Prevent Losing Your Aligners

To avoid losing your Invisalign aligners in the future, consider these simple tips:

• Always store your aligners in their protective case when not wearing them.
• Avoid wrapping aligners in napkins or tissues.
• Establish a routine of putting your aligners in the same place when eating.
• Consider using a brightly colored case to make it easier to spot.

Maintain Your Invisalign Treatment for Uninterrupted Smiles

Losing your Invisalign aligner can feel like a setback, but with quick action and communication with your dentist, it doesn’t have to delay your treatment.

If you lose your aligner, don’t wait—call your dentist right away so you can keep working toward a straighter, healthier smile.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, we are committed to helping you achieve your best smile with personalized Invisalign treatment. Our experienced team ensures that your Invisalign journey is smooth, even when unexpected situations arise. Whether you need a replacement aligner or guidance on your next steps, we’re here to support your progress with compassionate, patient-focused care.

Call us at (216) 464-2448 or request an appointment online.