Did you know that overcrowded teeth can make you self-conscious about your appearance and impact your dental health? If you cannot reach all sides to brush and floss them thoroughly, you’re more vulnerable to issues like cavities and gum disease.
Thankfully, your dentist can reposition your grin with Clear Correct ‘invisible’ aligners. This alternative to traditional orthodontics relies on plastic trays that fit snuggly over your teeth to shift them. If you’re struggling to insert your aligners, or they won’t click into place, keep reading to learn what you can do about it!
How Should Clear Correct Fit?
Your orthodontic treatment utilizes a series of plastic trays designed in advance based on scans and images of your teeth, gums, and bite alignment. You must wear them 20 to 22 hours daily, and then you’ll be given a new set to switch to after about one to two weeks.
You may notice small air bubbles between your teeth and your Clear Correct and worry that it doesn’t fit, especially if the trays are new. However, these gaps are intentional and will gradually close as the aligners exert enough pressure to shift your pearly whites into place. No noticeable spaces should be left when you switch to the next set.
Why Doesn’t My Clear Correct Fit Well?
If your Clear Correct doesn’t fit snuggly over your teeth, it could be due to:
- A new set of aligners. New trays have gaps because your teeth have yet to move into their designated spaces.
- Not wearing it long enough. If you’re not meeting the allotted daily wear time, your pearly whites could revert to their previous position, and your next trays won’t fit correctly.
- Damaged aligners. Exposing your Clear Correct to hot temperatures can warp them so they no longer fit. Also, if they’ve dried out or cracked, they may not be able to be inserted successfully.
What Can I Do If My Clear Correct Doesn’t Fit?
If you’re struggling with ill-fitting aligners, you can try:
- Aligner chewies. You can bite down on these soft, cylindrical tubes to help the plastic press down securely over your teeth.
- Start in the front. Place the trays over your front teeth first, then press firmly moving toward your molars until they click into place.
- Contact your provider. If your Clear Correct has been harmed, you’ll need to let your dentist know so they can provide proper instruction. You may be asked to switch to the next set earlier than anticipated or reorder and repeat a previous pair.
Also, schedule regular follow-up appointments with your dentist so they can monitor your progress and ensure your teeth are shifting as intended!
About the Practice
Patients at Rancho Park Dental Group benefit from two dentists dedicated to providing customized service to meet their unique needs. Dr. Sassounian and Dr. Silvera share 30+ years of combined experience providing a comprehensive array of services to people of all ages, including Clear Correct invisible aligners. They combine a caring and passionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (310) 575-0886.