Invisalign has established itself as a reliable, effective, and discreet orthodontic treatment. Countless patients choose to get started with it every year! But if you have been using Invisalign for a while, you might notice a problem. In rare cases, teeth do not “track” — in other words, they do not move according to the original treatment plan. Why does this happen, and what can you do about it? This blog post provides helpful information.
You Have Stubborn Teeth
Some teeth are naturally more resistant to movement than others. The root structure, bone density, or previous dental work can contribute to this stubbornness. If you notice that certain teeth appear to lag behind, you are not alone. Orthodontists and dentists often encounter patients whose teeth are slow to respond, even with perfectly designed aligners.
In such cases, your provider might suggest using attachments — small tooth-colored bumps bonded to your teeth — to give the aligners a better grip and promote the movement that is necessary for your progress. Occasionally, additional modifications to your treatment plan are needed to address these stubborn teeth and keep your smile transformation progressing.
Your Teeth Are Colliding
Sometimes, the movement of your teeth can cause them to collide or become crowded in unexpected ways. When teeth press against each other, they may not shift into their assigned positions as anticipated. This is especially common in cases where there is minimal space for movement, or when teeth have rotated significantly.
Your orthodontist or dentist can evaluate whether interproximal reduction — a process that gently reshapes the sides of certain teeth — or other space-creating techniques are necessary. By addressing these collisions, your provider can help create the room required for your teeth to move freely and comfortably into their new positions.
You Are Not Wearing the Aligners Enough
Success with Invisalign depends largely on your commitment to wearing the aligners for the recommended amount of time each day. If you do not keep the trays in your mouth for 20 to 22 hours daily, your teeth will not move as intended. Even missing a few hours here and there can slow progress or lead to poor tracking.
Remember to remove your aligners only for eating, drinking anything besides water, and oral hygiene. Consistency is key, and staying mindful about aligner wear will help you achieve the best possible results within your expected timeline. Some people find that using an app on the phone, such as TrayMinder, helps them keep up with their treatment.
If you notice that your Invisalign treatment is not progressing as planned, do not worry. Talk to your care team to learn how you can get things back on track.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group in Woodbridge, our large team of dentists and specialists is proud to serve our community. We offer a range of treatments, including Invisalign. If you have questions about how it works or what to expect from it, we would be happy to speak with you during an in-depth consultation in our comfortable office. To learn more or to request an appointment, contact us at 203-409-2535.