Dental Blog

Invisalign Not Tracking Properly? Here's What You Can Do

Written by Dr Perry | Nov 24, 2023 9:34:25 AM

Discover what to do if your Invisalign is not tracking properly and how to ensure successful treatment.

Common issues with Invisalign tracking

When it comes to Invisalign treatment, one of the common issues that patients may encounter is the aligners not tracking properly. This means that the aligners are not fitting snugly against the teeth or are not moving the teeth as intended. There could be several reasons why Invisalign is not tracking properly, such as:

- Poorly fitting aligners: If the aligners are not properly fitted to your teeth, they may not apply the right amount of pressure to move the teeth.

- Not wearing aligners for the recommended duration: Invisalign aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day to ensure effective treatment. If you are not wearing them consistently, it may affect the tracking.

- Not following the prescribed treatment plan: It is important to follow the treatment plan provided by your orthodontist. Deviating from the plan may lead to issues with tracking.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your Invisalign treatment, there are steps you can take to address the problem and ensure successful treatment.

Steps to take if Invisalign is not tracking

If you notice that your Invisalign is not tracking properly, here are some steps you can take:

1. Contact your orthodontist: The first step is to reach out to your orthodontist and let them know about the issue. They will be able to guide you on the next steps to take.

2. Check for proper alignment: Inspect your aligners to ensure they are properly aligned with your teeth. If there are any gaps or misalignments, it may indicate that the aligners are not fitting correctly.

3. Try switching to a new set of aligners: Your orthodontist may provide you with a new set of aligners if they determine that the current set is not tracking properly. Follow their instructions on when to switch to the new set.

4. Wear aligners as instructed: Make sure you are wearing your aligners for the recommended duration each day. Consistency is key to successful treatment.

AND ALWAYS USE CHEWIES!!!!

5. Keep up with regular check-ups: Regularly visit your orthodontist for check-ups to monitor the progress of your treatment and address any issues that may arise.

By taking these steps, you can increase the chances of your Invisalign treatment tracking properly and achieving the desired results. We will often ask you to ensure that you are wearing aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day, use chewies to correctly seat the aligner in your mouth and wear each aligner for a full two weeks. This should bring tracking back into alignment. However, the onus is always on each patient to wear aligners correctly. 

Checking for proper alignment

Proper alignment of your Invisalign aligners is crucial for successful treatment. Here are some tips for checking the alignment:

1. Use a mirror: Look closely at your aligners while wearing them in front of a mirror. Check if they are fitting properly against your teeth without any gaps or misalignments.

2. Feel for pressure: When you wear your aligners, you should feel a gentle pressure on your teeth. If you don't feel any pressure or if it feels uneven, it may indicate a problem with alignment.

3. Consult your orthodontist: If you have any doubts about the alignment of your aligners, don't hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist. They can provide guidance and make any necessary adjustments.

Checking for proper alignment regularly can help identify and address tracking issues early on, ensuring the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment.

Tips for optimizing Invisalign tracking

To optimize the tracking of your Invisalign aligners, consider the following tips:

1. Wear aligners consistently: Make sure you are wearing your aligners for the recommended duration each day. Consistency is key to achieving the desired results. AND ALWAYS USE CHEWIES!!!!!!

2. Clean aligners properly: Properly clean your aligners using the recommended cleaning solution or mild soap. Keeping them clean will ensure they fit properly and maintain their effectiveness.

3. Avoid unnecessary removal: Minimize the frequency of removing your aligners unnecessarily. The more you take them out, the less time they have to work on moving your teeth.

4. Follow oral hygiene practices: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. This will help prevent any issues that may interfere with the tracking of your aligners.

By following these tips, you can optimize the tracking of your Invisalign aligners and maximize the effectiveness of your treatment.

When to consult your orthodontist

While there are steps you can take to address tracking issues with your Invisalign, there may be situations where it is best to consult your orthodontist. Here are some scenarios when you should reach out to them:

- Persistent tracking issues: If the aligners consistently fail to track properly despite trying various solutions, it is important to consult your orthodontist for further evaluation.

- Severe discomfort or pain: If you experience severe discomfort or pain while wearing your aligners, it may indicate a more serious issue that requires professional attention.

- Unexpected changes in your bite or teeth movement: If you notice unexpected changes in your bite or teeth movement during your Invisalign treatment, consult your orthodontist to ensure everything is on track.

Your orthodontist is the best resource to address any concerns or issues you may have with your Invisalign treatment. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and support.