{"id":359,"date":"2026-03-06T16:56:40","date_gmt":"2026-03-06T16:56:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.websterdentalnh.com\/blog\/?p=359"},"modified":"2026-03-06T16:56:43","modified_gmt":"2026-03-06T16:56:43","slug":"lost-invisalign-aligner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.websterdentalnh.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/06\/lost-invisalign-aligner\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Deal with a Lost Invisalign Aligner"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners<\/a> are removable. On the one hand, this is a major advantage that will allow you to enjoy all of your favorite foods without restriction throughout the orthodontic process. But on the other hand, it also opens up the possibility that you might end up losing one of your aligners at some point. Below is an overview of how to deal with this situation, as well as the steps you can take to prevent it from happening in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Should You Do If You Lose an Aligner?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you realize that your aligner is missing, remain calm and retrace your steps. You may be able to find it simply by checking the places you\u2019ve been to. Don\u2019t leave any stone unturned; it\u2019s not unheard of for aligners to wind up in the trash or between couch cushions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t find your aligner, your next step should be to reach out to your dentist. They\u2019ll be able to advise you on what you should do next based on where you are in your treatment plan. For example, if you were almost due to start wearing a new aligner, it may be alright for you to make the switch a little earlier than planned. In other cases, you might need to wear a previous aligner until your dentist can replace the one you lost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can You Avoid Losing an Aligner?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can minimize your chances of losing an aligner by practicing the following good habits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n