Losing an Invisalign aligner can be stressful, especially when you’re committed to staying on track with your treatment. Misplacing a tray is more common than people think, and while it can interrupt your progress, acting quickly will help minimize any setback. Whether it slipped into a napkin at lunch or got thrown away by accident, here’s what to do next.
Stay Calm and Look in the Most Likely Places
Before assuming the tray is gone for good, retrace your steps. Invisalign aligners are clear and easy to overlook, so check common spots: pockets, bags, the bathroom counter, the car, or anywhere you last removed them. If you were eating out, call the restaurant—sometimes staff can help locate mistakenly discarded aligners. Acting quickly increases your chances of finding it before it’s damaged or thrown away.
Call Your Dentist or Orthodontist Immediately
If you can’t find the tray after a thorough search, contact your dentist or orthodontist right away. They’ll guide you on the next steps based on where you are in your treatment. Sometimes they’ll recommend moving ahead to your next aligner, while in other cases they may want you to revert to the previous one to prevent your teeth from shifting. They may also order a replacement tray if necessary. Quick communication helps keep your treatment on schedule and avoids unnecessary complications.
Don’t Try to Skip Ahead Without Guidance
It may be tempting to jump to the next aligner if you have it on hand, but do not make this decision on your own. Advancing too soon can cause discomfort, poor tracking, or unwanted tooth movement. Your provider will determine whether skipping ahead is safe or if a different approach will protect your progress.
Use Your Previous Aligner When Needed
If your dental team advises it, wearing your previous aligner can help maintain your current tooth position. This prevents backtracking while you wait for a replacement or instructions. It won’t move your teeth forward, but it can keep them stable until your next step is determined.
Prevent Future Losses with Better Habits
While accidents happen, adopting a few simple habits can reduce the risk of losing another tray. Always store aligners in their protective case when eating or brushing—never wrapped in a napkin or left on a table. Keep a designated spot at home for your case, and consider carrying a travel case when you’re out. These small routines make a big difference in protecting your investment.
Losing an aligner can be frustrating, but quick action and guidance from your dental provider will help keep your treatment on track.
About the Practice
At DentCare Dental Center, our skilled team is dedicated to creating beautiful, healthy smiles with personalized Invisalign treatment. We offer customized plans, attentive support, and high-quality care to ensure your orthodontic journey stays smooth from start to finish. To learn more about Invisalign and how we can help, schedule a consultation with our experienced doctors.
Call us at (978) 777-5660 or request an appointment online.