My lower aligner is busted. Not completely, it’s a got a crack in it which means the aligner isn’t as snug on my back teeth as it should be.
First, I think I cracked it because I got 3 buttons put on my bottom teeth and it’s tough taking that aligner out with those on. It always feels like the thing is going to break when I take it out. Anyone else have those buttons on and know an easy way to take the aligner out? I try and get the back part off first but it’s tough and I feel like I’m pulling it and bending it too much.
And then, my dilema is should I call the orthodontist? I really don’t want to pay for a replacement aligner. I’ve heard they’re kinda pricey. I’ve had it in a week. Is it possible to just go to the next aligner if it fits and then wear that for extra time? I’m just worried that the next one will crack too and then I’ll have 2 cracked aligners. To call or not to call?
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Cracked Invisalign Aligner?3 comments to Cracked Invisalign Aligner? |
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I’m a dentist.
First off, the aligner needs to be replaced. If it is cracked, it is no longer able to apply the amount of pressure Invisalign intended for it to apply.
Second, it is very unlikely that you will need to pay for a replacement. Invisalign designed your case using a type of CAD program for teeth. Hence, it was their responsibility to make your aligners removable. If you had that much difficulty removing your aligners (because of the tabs) that one of them finally cracked, it is their fault, not yours. Besides, it is very inexpensive for them to make another aligner for you, thus it is unlikely that they’d even want to charge you for it.
Regarding advancing to the next aligner, you should NOT do this. Remember, Invisalign requires that you wear each aligner for two weeks before advancing to the next aligner. They do this for a reason. Each aligner is supposed to move the teeth a certain amount, and do so in a way that is not damaging to the periodontal ligament. Should you prematurely advance to the next aligner, your teeth may fit, but the orthodontic movement likely becomes more traumatic–which is not a good thing. Now, it is possible that your doctor may tell you to go ahead and use the next aligner, and I’d urge you to follow his/her recommendation rather than mine, as I cannot examine you myself.
Finally, as far as removing the retainers, you need to lift them off your teeth little-by-little at different areas of the retainer. Lift a little at the back/molar area, then a little at the front/incisor area, then a little at the middle/premolar area. Repeat this process until the tray comes out. Since you have tabs/buttons on your teeth, keep in mind that the front of the retainer will be the last to be removed.
It is best to call your orthdontist and make an appointment and let him know your concerns. do not move to the next stage unless he says to.
thats the con about them