For people who want a more discreet option than traditional braces, clear aligners like Invisalign are a popular alternative. They allow wearers to go about their daily lives while comfortably straightening their smiles, but a successful treatment still depends on how closely you follow your care instructions. Wearing your Invisalign wrong or not caring for them properly can lead to poor results.

Invisalign Mistakes You Should Avoid

Not Wearing Aligners for the Recommended Time

Invisalign aligners are designed to be worn 20–22 hours a day. Taking them out too often or leaving them out for extended periods is the most common issue with Invisalign. It can affect how well your aligners fit and extend the time of your treatment. You should put them back in immediately after eating, wear them overnight, and avoid skipping days in order to stay on track with your schedule.

Skipping or Delaying Aligner Changes

Each set of aligners moves your teeth slightly, with each new tray moving them closer to their final positioning. Skipping a change or wearing a set longer than recommended can slow your progress and increase the risk of bad results. Stick to the schedule provided by your dentist to avoid falling behind and having to extend the length of your treatment. 

Poor Oral Hygiene

Not brushing and flossing before putting your aligners back in traps food particles or bacteria underneath, increasing the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and staining. Keeping your aligners clean helps protect your teeth from future dental issues caused by improper Invisalign use.

Eating or Drinking With Aligners In

Eating or drinking with your aligners is another big Invisalign mistake people make. It can cause damage, discoloration, or trap residue against your teeth. You should always take your aligners out before eating, rinse your mouth afterward, and clean your aligners before putting them back in.

Ignoring Discomfort or Fit Issues

Wearing Invisalign may come with some discomfort, especially when adjusting to a new set of aligners. However, persistent pain, sharp edges, or a poor fit are signs that something is not right or that you might be wearing them wrong. Depending on the issue, it may require a follow-up visit with your dentist. Addressing problems early helps prevent setbacks that can cause you to wear the aligners longer. 

Not Following Your Dentist’s Instructions

Beyond wearing your aligners the proper amount of time per day and following the schedule set by your dentist when switching out trays, it’s also important to follow any specific care instructions, like avoiding warm drinks, which can warp the aligners. Following your doctor’s recommendations will give you the best experience and results from Invisalign. 

Not Wearing Retainers After Treatment

Once your treatment is complete, retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your new smile. If they’re not worn as instructed, it can cause your teeth to shift back and undo the results you’ve spent time and money on. Consistent and proper use of the retainers helps protect the investment you’ve made in your smile.

How to Tell If Something Isn’t Right With Your Aligners

Paying attention to the signs that something isn’t quite right with your Invisalign can help prevent issues that can slow your progress. Here are some things to watch for:

  • Aligners that feel loose, ill-fitting, or no longer sit snugly on your teeth
  • Ongoing or worsening pain that goes beyond mild, temporary discomfort
  • Teeth that don’t seem to be shifting or progressing as expected
  • Difficulty switching to the next set of aligners
  • Visible gaps between your aligners and teeth

If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to contact your dentist so adjustments can be made.

When to Contact Your Dentist

If you’re experiencing ongoing issues with your aligners, it’s important to let your dentist know.  Contact their office if you lose or damage one, have ongoing or severe discomfort, or feel like your treatment isn’t progressing correctly. Your dentist will be able to troubleshoot the issue to ensure your aligners are comfortable and well-fitted to keep your treatment on track. 

Keep Your Invisalign Treatment on Track With Help From Premiere Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

One of the biggest invisalign mistakes you can make is not having a dental team that understands your smile goals and monitors your progress every step of the way. A reliable dentist doesn’t just provide aligners. They make sure your treatment is adjusted when needed, answer questions as they come up, and help you navigate any challenges along the way.

If you want to know if Invisalign is right for you or are already in treatment and want expert oversight you can trust, schedule a consultation or follow-up appointment with Premiere Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today.