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Invisalign offers a discreet and convenient way to straighten your teeth, but like any removable orthodontic treatment, your aligners have to be kept safe when they’re not in your mouth. If one goes missing, it can feel stressful — especially when you’re worried about falling behind in your treatment plan. The good news is that losing an aligner is a fairly common situation, and knowing what steps to take can help minimize any setbacks.
Call Your Dentist or Orthodontist Right Away
The most important thing you can do after losing an Invisalign tray is to contact your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible. They will review where you are in your treatment and recommend the best next step based on your progress.
In some cases, they may advise you to move ahead to your next set of aligners. In others, they may recommend going back to the previous tray to keep your teeth from shifting out of place. If necessary, a replacement aligner may be ordered to ensure your teeth continue moving according to plan.
The sooner you reach out, the easier it is to prevent delays or unwanted changes in your alignment.
Avoid Leaving Your Teeth Without an Aligner
If you lose a tray, try not to go without wearing an aligner for too long. Teeth can begin to shift in as little as a day or two, especially if you are in an active phase of movement. If you still have the previous aligner set, your dentist may recommend wearing it temporarily until you receive further instructions.
Wearing an aligner — even an earlier one — helps maintain stability and reduces the risk of discomfort when you transition back into the correct tray.
Don’t Skip Ahead Without Guidance
It may be tempting to jump straight to the next tray if you have it on hand, but doing so without professional guidance can sometimes cause soreness or disrupt the treatment timeline. Each Invisalign stage is carefully planned, and your dentist will determine whether your teeth are ready for the next step.
Following their instructions ensures your treatment stays predictable and comfortable.
How to Prevent Losing an Aligner in the Future
Most lost trays disappear in a few common scenarios — wrapped in a napkin at a restaurant, left in a pocket, or misplaced during travel. Using a storage case every time you remove your aligners is the easiest way to avoid losing them. Keeping a spare case in your bag, car, or workplace can also help you stay prepared.
It’s also helpful to avoid placing aligners on trays, tables, or countertops where they can be accidentally thrown away or picked up by pets.
Consistent wear and mindful storage go a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your smile on schedule.
Losing an aligner can be frustrating, but with quick communication and careful next steps, your treatment can stay right on track.
About the Practice
Dr. S. John Salivonchik provides comprehensive Invisalign treatment and personalized care to help patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles with comfort and confidence. Our experienced dental team closely monitors each patient’s progress, offering guidance and support through every stage of treatment — including situations like lost or damaged aligners. With a commitment to education, communication, and individualized care, the doctors and team are dedicated to helping every patient enjoy a smooth, successful Invisalign experience from start to finish. If you’ve lost an aligner, call us at (610) 502-1545 or request an appointment online.
