The first time you put in your Invisalign aligners, it might feel a little odd. The aligners are designed to be a tight fit, and the gentle pressure on your teeth can take some time to get used to. Alongside making sure you can put in your aligners, you also need to make sure you can take them out.
Removing your Invisalign aligners is an important part of wearing them. If you don’t remove them properly, they may not work as well and could even damage your teeth or hurt your gums, cheeks and tongue. In this blog post, we will teach you how to remove your Invisalign aligners in the correct way so that you can get the most out of your treatment!
How to remove Invisalign aligners
To remove your Invisalign aligners, start by washing your hands thoroughly. Then, take a look at your aligners and locate the tab. The tab is a small, raised piece of plastic that is easy to grip. Once you have found the tab, gently pull on it until the aligner pops out of your mouth. It might take a few attempts to get the aligners to pop out with ease.
The hardest time to remove your aligners will always be immediately after an aligner change. This is when the aligner will have the tightest grip on your teeth. Getting comfortable with inserting and removing your aligners is an essential part of the treatment process, so don’t be deterred if you don’t get the hang of it straight away.
What if I can’t remove an aligner?
If you’re struggling to remove an aligner, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, make sure that your hands are clean and dry. If your hands are wet or greasy, the aligner will be harder to grip. If you’re struggling to get a grip because of the saliva in your mouth, try using a paper towel to get hold of the aligner.
Secondly, try using a floss pick or dental tool to help get a grip on the tab. You can buy a specialist tool called an OrthoKey. This tool is designed to help with the removal of Invisalign aligners, but any small, pointed object will do the trick.
If you’re still struggling to remove your aligner, don’t panic. Simply start at the back and gently lift the aligner up and over your molars and work your way around to the front. You can also start at one side and work your way across your mouth.
What if I break an aligner while removing it?
If you break an aligner while removing it, don’t panic. Simply call your orthodontist or Invisalign provider and they will be able to advise you on what to do next. In most cases, a broken aligner is not a big deal and can easily be replaced. You may need to return to using the last aligner in your case while you wait for the replacement. If you were close to your next aligner, you might be able to simply move forward to the next stage. Contact your dentist to find out the next steps.
Where should I store my aligners?
Once you have removed your aligners, it’s important to store them in a safe place. The best place to store your aligners is in the provided case. If you misplace your case, any small, airtight container will do. Avoid storing your aligners in a tissue or napkin as this could cause them to warp.
Have questions about the Invisalign treatment journey? We’re here to help! Book your appointment today to learn if this treatment is right for you.
