Invisalign is a popular choice for teens and adults seeking a straighter smile without the wires and brackets of traditional braces. But what if your aligners do not seem to fit? If you notice gaps between your Invisalign trays and your teeth, your aligners may not be tracking properly, and that can delay your treatment.
At Wilson & Hendrickson Orthodontics, we work with patients every day to keep their Invisalign on track. If your trays are not fitting the way you expect, you are not alone, and there are reliable ways to correct the problem.
What Does an Invisalign Tracking Issue Look Like?
When Invisalign is working correctly, your aligners should sit snugly against your teeth with no space. If you notice a gap between your Invisalign tray and your teeth, especially near the biting edges, it is referred to as a tracking issue.
Left: Invisalign not tracking, with visible gaps. Right: Invisalign is tracking properly, with the trays flush against the teeth.
What Does “Tracking” Mean in Invisalign Treatment?
“Tracking” is the term orthodontists use to describe how well your aligners fit against your teeth as they move. Invisalign aligners are custom-made using 3D scans and are designed to guide your teeth gradually into new positions.
When aligners are tracking correctly, they fit tightly and apply the right pressure. When they are not, you may notice that Invisalign is not fitting properly, with one tooth not aligning correctly, small gaps between the tray and your teeth, or aligners that feel loose.
Why Invisalign Might Not Be Fitting Properly
Not Wearing Aligners Long Enough
One of the most common reasons for Invisalign not tracking is wear time. For optimal results, aligners should be worn for 22 hours each day. If you frequently remove trays for snacks, drinks, or smoking, those small gaps in wear time can add up and impact your progress.
Drinking or Smoking With Trays In
Dark drinks like coffee, tea, soda, and juice can stain aligners, while smoking can discolor them. More importantly, if aligners are worn out too often due to these habits, the wear time drops below the recommended 22 hours. Over time, this can lead to Invisalign not fitting correctly.
Damaged, Warped, or Bent Aligners
Invisalign trays are durable, but they are not indestructible. They can be damaged if you:
- Remove them incorrectly by twisting or pulling one side first
- Expose them to heat such as hot water, dishwashers, hot cars, or direct sunlight
- Leave them where pets or children can reach them
- Store them without a protective case
A warped or bent aligner will not sit flush, which can create gaps or discomfort.
How to Fix Invisalign Gaps and Poor Tracking
If you notice gaps between your Invisalign trays and your teeth, the first step is always to check in with your orthodontist. Every case is unique, and what works for one patient may not be right for another. These are some of the common solutions we may recommend:
Use Chewies (With Your Orthodontist’s Approval)
Invisalign chewies are small foam-like cylinders that help press your trays into place. By biting down for a few minutes each day, they can help close small gaps and improve tracking. Your orthodontist can let you know if chewies are appropriate for your situation.
Backtrack to a Previous Tray (Only if Directed)
Sometimes orthodontists recommend going back to your last set of aligners to give your teeth a chance to catch up. This should only be done under your orthodontist’s guidance, since switching trays on your own can set your treatment back.
Contact Your Orthodontist if Trays Are Damaged
If your aligners are visibly cracked, warped, or still not fitting after trying chewies, reach out right away. Depending on your case, your orthodontist may recommend:
- A replacement tray
- Extra wear time on your current set
- A small adjustment to your treatment plan
Call Your Orthodontist if Trays Are Damaged
If your aligners are visibly cracked, warped, or still not fitting after trying chewies, reach out to your orthodontist. Depending on the situation, the solution may include:
- A replacement tray
- Extra wear time on your current set
A small adjustment to your treatment plan
Invisalign Treatment in Topeka, KS
If your Invisalign is not fitting properly, it is a very common issue and one that can be fixed with the right approach. At Wilson & Hendrickson Orthodontics, our team will evaluate your aligners, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.
We are proud to serve patients in Topeka, KS, and we are here to keep your smile on track.
Schedule your Invisalign consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Invisalign not fitting properly?
Tracking issues often arise from not wearing aligners consistently, warped trays, or natural variations in how teeth move. Your orthodontist can confirm the cause and recommend the right fix.
Why is there a gap between my Invisalign tray and teeth?
A visible gap is usually a sign that trays are not tracking. Sometimes this can be improved with chewies or other adjustments, but it is important to check with your orthodontist before making changes.
Do chewies fix Invisalign tracking problems?
Chewies can help seat aligners more tightly and may close small gaps when trays are only slightly off. Your orthodontist can let you know if chewies are the right option for your case.
What should I do if my Invisalign is not working?
Always reach out to your orthodontist first. You may need to backtrack to a previous tray or have a replacement made, but those steps should only be done under your orthodontist’s direction.
Can I fix Invisalign not fitting at home?
Chewies and consistent wear time can sometimes help, but you should never try to adjust your treatment plan alone. If the issue continues, your orthodontist will guide you through the safest next steps.
Keeping Your Invisalign on Track
Invisalign not tracking does not mean your treatment is failing. In most cases, the solution is simple, whether it is improving wear time, using chewies, or replacing a tray.
If you notice gaps between your Invisalign aligners and your teeth, Wilson & Hendrickson Orthodontics is here to help. We will evaluate your aligners, answer your questions, and guide you toward the next step so your smile stays on track.
Schedule your Invisalign appointment today at our Topeka, KS office and let us help you move forward with confidence.
