Invisalign clear aligners are known for their comfort, durability, and convenience—but accidents can still happen. Whether you accidentally drop your aligner, bite down on something too hard, or notice a crack after cleaning, a broken Invisalign aligner can leave you wondering what to do next.
If you live in West Islip and are undergoing Invisalign treatment, knowing how to handle a broken aligner is key to staying on track with your smile goals. Let’s walk through what to do if your Invisalign aligner breaks—and how to prevent unnecessary delays in your treatment.
Common Reasons Invisalign Aligners Break
Invisalign aligners are crafted from a strong, flexible plastic designed to withstand daily use. However, they aren’t completely indestructible. Some common reasons aligners may break or crack include:
- Biting down on hard or crunchy foods while wearing aligners
- Improper removal, such as pulling too aggressively from one side
- Cleaning aligners with hot water, which can warp or weaken the plastic
- Dropping or accidentally stepping on an aligner
- Wear and tear over time, especially if an aligner is worn longer than prescribed
Even a small crack or chip can compromise how the aligner fits and functions, so it’s important to take any damage seriously.
What to Do If Your Invisalign Aligner Breaks
If you notice a crack, split, or break in your aligner, here’s what to do:
1. Assess the Damage
Carefully inspect the aligner. If it’s a minor crack but the aligner still fits snugly and feels secure, you may be able to continue wearing it temporarily. However, if the aligner is broken in half, doesn’t fit properly, or feels uncomfortable, it’s best to stop using it.
2. Contact Your Orthodontist
Call your orthodontist’s office as soon as possible to explain the situation. They will advise you based on your stage of treatment and the severity of the damage. In some cases, they may instruct you to:
- Continue wearing the broken aligner until a replacement is available
- Move forward to the next set of aligners (if you’re close to the switch date)
- Return to the previous aligner to hold your teeth in place
Never try to repair a broken aligner with glue or household adhesives, as these substances aren’t safe for oral use and can cause additional problems.
3. Follow Professional Instructions
Your orthodontist will help you determine the best course of action to minimize disruption to your treatment plan. Always follow their instructions carefully to ensure your teeth continue moving as intended.
Tips to Prevent Invisalign Aligners from Breaking
While accidents happen, you can take steps to protect your aligners:
- Always remove aligners gently, using both hands and starting from the back teeth.
- Take out aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Store aligners in their case when not wearing them—never wrap them in a napkin or leave them exposed.
- Clean aligners with cool or lukewarm water—never hot water.
- Avoid chewing gum or eating hard foods while wearing aligners.
By following these simple precautions, you can help keep your aligners intact and your treatment on track.
Trusted Care at Vitagliano Orthodontics
If you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment in West Islip and experience a broken aligner, Vitagliano Orthodontics is here to support you. Our experienced team offers fast, personalized care to help minimize any treatment disruptions and keep your smile progress moving forward.
We’ll evaluate your situation, provide expert recommendations, and, if needed, arrange for a replacement aligner or adjust your treatment plan. With our guidance, you can feel confident that your Invisalign journey stays as smooth and successful as possible.
If you need help with a broken aligner—or if you’re ready to start your Invisalign journey—schedule your consultation with Vitagliano Orthodontics today!
