When you don’t do something, you can’t expect to make progress, right? This same basic idea applies to many things in life, one of which is Invisalign® clear aligners. If you aren’t making sure they’re in place for the majority of the day and you’re not transitioning to new sets on schedule, our Grand Rapids Invisalign orthodontists can’t guarantee that you’ll reach the end of treatment in the time that was originally predicted or that issues won’t arise.
Here’s what you should know about the importance of wearing Invisalign aligners as instructed.
Why Minimum Daily Wear Matters
Custom clear aligners are engineered to move your teeth in small, calculated increments. Each set of is designed to be worn for about one to two weeks at a time, slowly shifting your teeth closer to optimal alignment. However, this only works if the trays are worn for the recommended 20–22 hours per day. Less than that, and the teeth don’t move as expected or at all.
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When you remove your clear dental aligners for extended periods, the gentle pressure that facilitates tooth movement is interrupted. Instead of progressing, your teeth may start to revert to their previous positions. That means the next set of trays won’t fit properly, and you could face delays, discomfort, or the need for extra refinement aligners down the line.
How Inconsistent Wear Will Cost You
Skipping hours here and there outside of the recommended wear time might not seem like a big deal, but it can add up. When the clear aligner process gets off track, it often requires additional visits to our Grand Rapids, MI, orthodontics office, new scans, and extra trays to realign the plan. This can mean more money, more time, and more hassle. Not to mention, your final results might not be as precise as they would’ve been with proper wear.
No matter if you’re talking about clear aligners for adults or teens, compliance is non-negotiable. Teens may face added challenges with school, sports, or social situations, while adults often juggle aligner wear around work meetings or meals. Regardless of age, the rule stays the same: to keep your teeth moving forward, you need to be wearing your trays nearly all the time.
The Issue of Improperly Fitting Aligners
If you find yourself in a situation where your dental aligners suddenly feel tight or won’t seat fully, it’s likely because they haven’t been worn consistently. Clear aligner trays are time-sensitive tools with each set building upon the progress of the last. Miss too much time, and the trays can’t do their job. This can stall or completely halt your progress. If that happens, you’ll need to revisit our local Invisalign orthodontists to assess whether to move backward in the tray sequence or take entirely new impressions.
Discipline is Required When Straightening Teeth
Starting Invisalign treatment is a commitment, not just to your smile, but to a daily routine. Removing your trays is perfectly fine for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. But the longer they’re out, the more you risk losing the ground you’ve gained.
, similar to traditional metal braces, works best when your teeth are under constant, gentle pressure. Removing your trays too frequently is like taking extra breaks during a workout and expecting the same results. You won’t get the progress you’re hoping for, and your clear aligners become an expense that didn’t deliver.
Schedule an Invisalign Follow-Up Visit
Just like with other forms of treatment, it’s best to keep up with what our , have advised and not stray from the plan or delays are bound to happen. Call Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics today at (616) 455-4800 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We’ll monitor your progress and answer any questions you might have!