SureSmile aligners are customized to fit snugly over your teeth to help guide them toward their proper alignment. If an aligner doesn’t seem to fit correctly, then it could be cause for concern. To keep your orthodontic treatment on track, you will want to take steps to deal with the issue as soon as possible. Here’s what you need to know about ill-fitting SureSmile aligners and how to address them.
Why Doesn’t Your SureSmile Aligner Fit the Way It Should?
It should be noted that an aligner that doesn’t seem to fit isn’t always a problem. Sometimes it may just be due to the fact that you’ve started wearing it for the first time; the aligner is designed to represent the position of the teeth at the end of that particular point in the treatment, and the teeth have yet to actually reach said position. As you continue to wear the aligner in question, you’ll notice that it starts to fit better over time.
That being said, sometimes an aligner might not fit properly because you didn’t wear your previous aligner for the required 20 to 22 hours a day. This can lead to the teeth not being where they’re supposed to be at that stage of the treatment process and thus not matching up with the current aligner.
And of course, sometimes there might be a problem with the aligner itself. It’s possible that it might have been damaged in an accident; in other cases, it might have become warped after contact with hot water, causing it to no longer fit.
How Should You Deal With an Ill-Fitting SureSmile Aligner?
The first thing you can try is adjust the way you put the aligner on. Start by pushing it over the front teeth, then put pressure on the molars. Once the aligner snaps into place, run your thumb over it to ensure that it’s properly sealed.
If that doesn’t work, you can try using chewies, which are small cylinders that you can bite down on. This will help get rid of any air bubbles and can improve the fit of the aligner. It’s typically recommended that you use the chewies for about 10 to 15 minutes a day.
In the event that you can’t solve the problem on your own, get in touch with your dentist. Sometimes they may recommend going back to a previous aligner, as your teeth may not be in the proper positions yet. They might also replace your current aligner if it has been damaged in any way.
Whatever the cause of an ill-fitting SureSmile aligner is, it’s important to take care of the issue as promptly as possible. That way, you can continue your orthodontic treatment as planned and eventually enjoy the benefits of a straightened grin.
About the Author
Dr. Jordan Hardin is a graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in Lincoln. He is a member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and he has helped many patients achieve straighter, more confident grins with the help of SureSmile. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hardin at Westpark Village Dental Care in Plano, visit his website or call (972) 964-8989.