Invisalign continues to gain popularity as a clear alternative to traditional orthodontics for a few different reasons. Not only are the transparent trays considered more discreet than bulky brackets and wires, but they also don’t gouge the tender tissues inside your mouth the same way.
However, some patients struggle to remove their aligners for meals and cleanings due to their tight fit. Continue reading to learn about a few tips that some patients have used to take out their trays successfully!
Why Is It So Hard to Remove My Invisalign?
You’re not alone if you’re having a hard time getting your trays on and off your arches. These clear aligners are designed using digital impressions taken of your teeth and gums, so they’re usually incredibly accurate and fit as snugly as a glove.
Because of their tight fit, it can sometimes be difficult to pry them away from your teeth and remove them without harming the plastic material.
How Can I Successfully Take Out My Trays?
Thankfully, it’s not the first time a patient has struggled with removing their Invisalign, but many patients have luck after trying the following tips and tricks:
- Start in the back. Instead of trying to grasp the smooth front surface of your trays, you might find that it’s easier to pull them off if you pry the back of the tray away from your molars, first. These large teeth have plenty of surface area that anchors your Invisalign in place if you try to remove the front side first.
- Avoid cold drinks. Cold temperatures tend to contract different materials, and some folks believe that sipping something chilled before taking your trays out makes the plastic harder and tighter, which can thwart your efforts.
- Dry your mouth. Your fingers can become slippery and wet when reaching into your mouth to remove your Invisalign, which loosens your grip. You can try keeping your mouth open for a few seconds just before grasping a tray so that it’s drier.
- Use an Invisalign hook. There are special tools that have been created to help remove clear aligners that look like a small crochet hook that can be used to gently lift the aligners away from your enamel.
- Clip your nails. Lengthy fingernails can make it challenging to grab and hold smaller objects, such as your Invisalign tray, when you’re trying to remove it from your mouth.
If you’re still routinely struggling to take out your clear aligners, you may need to contact your dentist to ensure that they fit and function as intended!
Meet the Author
Dr. Michael Byars is passionate about helping families in Kansas City enhance their lives by improving their dental health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri- Kansas City, and today, is a member of several trusted organizations, including the American Dental Association. He offers a comprehensive menu of services, such as Invisalign, to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. If you’re concerned your trays don’t fit correctly, you can request an appointment on the website or call (816) 781-8222.