What to Do if Your Teeth Aligners Break?

Teeth aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and convenient way to achieve a straighter smile. However, despite their benefits, aligners are not immune to occasional mishaps, such as breakage. Knowing how to handle this situation is crucial to maintaining the progress of your orthodontic treatment. 

Teeth aligners, made from flexible and durable materials, are designed to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. While they are resilient, factors like accidental damage, wear and tear, or improper handling can lead to aligner breakage. Understanding the steps to take when faced with this situation can help minimize disruption to your treatment plan and ensure continued progress toward a straighter, healthier smile.

In this blog, we’ll explore what to do when your teeth aligners break, providing practical advice and expert tips to address the issue effectively. 

Common Causes of Aligner Breakage

Teeth aligners are designed to withstand daily wear and tear, but they can still break under certain circumstances. Understanding the common causes of aligner breakage can help you prevent these issues and maintain the integrity of your treatment. Here are some common reasons why aligners may break:

• Accidental damage from biting into hard foods or objects: Aligners are not designed to withstand excessive force, such as biting into hard foods or objects. Doing so can put undue stress on the aligner material, leading to cracks or fractures.

• Wear and tear over time from daily wear: As you wear your Invisalign aligners throughout the day, they may gradually wear down due to constant pressure and movement. Over time, this wear and tear can weaken the aligner material, making it more prone to breakage.

• Improper handling or cleaning techniques: Incorrect handling or cleaning of aligners can also contribute to breakage. For example, using harsh cleaning agents or brushing aligners too vigorously can weaken the material and increase the risk of damage. Additionally, mishandling aligners when removing or inserting them can cause them to bend or snap.

By being mindful of these common causes of aligner breakage, you can take proactive steps to protect your aligners and minimize the risk of damage.

Signs Your Aligner is Broken

When your teeth aligner breaks, it’s essential to identify the issue promptly to prevent further complications and ensure effective treatment. Here are some signs that your aligner may be broken:

Visible cracks or fractures: Inspect your aligner for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or fractures. These can occur due to accidental damage or wear and tear over time.

Changes in fit or discomfort while wearing the aligner: If your aligner no longer fits properly or feels uncomfortable when wearing it, it may indicate that it has been damaged or broken. Discomfort or irritation can occur if the aligner is no longer able to maintain the correct pressure on your teeth.

Difficulty placing or removing the aligner: Difficulty placing or removing your aligner can also be a sign of breakage. If the aligner has become warped or misshapen, it may not fit snugly over your teeth or may be challenging to remove.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to contact your orthodontist or dental provider for further guidance. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations for repair or replacement to ensure the continuity of your orthodontic treatment.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your Aligner Breaks

Experiencing a broken aligner can be concerning, but taking immediate action can help minimize disruption to your orthodontic treatment. Here are some essential steps to follow when your aligner breaks:

Remove the broken aligner and inspect it for damage: Carefully remove the broken aligner from your mouth and examine it for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or fractures. Inspecting the aligner will help you assess the extent of the breakage and determine if it can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary.

Contact your orthodontist or dental provider for guidance: Once you’ve identified that your aligner is broken, it’s crucial to contact your orthodontist or dental provider as soon as possible. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific situation and advise you on the next steps to take.

Follow any specific instructions provided by your orthodontist: Your orthodontist may provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed after your aligner breaks. This could include recommendations for temporary measures to maintain the progress of your treatment until a replacement aligner can be obtained. It’s essential to follow their guidance closely to ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic care.

Preserve the broken aligner if necessary: In some cases, your orthodontist may ask you to preserve the broken aligner for assessment or repair purposes. If instructed to do so, carefully store the broken aligner in a clean, dry container until you can consult with your orthodontist.

Avoid attempting to repair the aligner yourself: While it may be tempting to try to fix the broken aligner yourself, it’s important to resist the urge to do so. Attempting to repair the aligner on your own could further damage it or compromise its effectiveness, potentially prolonging your treatment.

Taking these immediate steps when your aligner breaks will help you address the issue promptly and ensure that your orthodontic treatment remains on track. 

Preventing Aligner Breakage in the Future

To minimize the risk of aligner breakage and ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to adopt preventive measures and maintain proper care practices. Here are some tips to help prevent aligner breakage in the future:

• Avoiding habits that may damage aligners, such as chewing on pens or nails: Be mindful of habits that could put unnecessary stress on your aligners and increase the likelihood of breakage. Avoid chewing on hard objects or using your aligners as makeshift tools to prevent damage.
• Properly storing and cleaning aligners according to the orthodontist’s recommendations: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for storing and cleaning your aligners diligently. Use the recommended cleaning solutions and techniques to maintain their integrity and prevent the buildup of bacteria or debris that could weaken the material.
• Regularly inspecting aligners for signs of wear and tear: Take the time to inspect your aligners regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, fractures, or warping. Early detection of issues allows for timely intervention and prevents further damage to the aligners.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can help protect your aligners from breakage and ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. 

Dealing with broken aligners can be concerning, but knowing how to handle the situation promptly is crucial for maintaining the progress of your orthodontic treatment. By following the immediate steps outlined here and adopting preventive measures for the future, you can minimize the risk of aligner breakage and ensure a smooth journey toward achieving your desired smile. Remember to communicate with your orthodontist for guidance and support throughout the process.