What to Do When You Lose Your Clear Aligner

Clear aligners like Invisalign have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, making it possible to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. But because aligners are removable and transparent, it’s surprisingly easy to misplace one. If you’ve lost your clear aligner, don’t panic — there are steps you can take to stay on track with your treatment and avoid setbacks.

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

The first thing to do when you lose an aligner is to stay calm. While it can feel stressful, aligners are designed to be replaced every one to two weeks, so losing one is not the end of the world. Acting quickly, however, is important to prevent your teeth from shifting out of place and delaying your progress.

Retrace Your Steps

Because aligners are clear, they can easily blend in with countertops, napkins, or trash. Retrace your steps to where you last removed them — at home, at school, or at a restaurant. Check pockets, bags, and any surfaces where they might have been placed. Sometimes a “lost” aligner is just hiding in plain sight.

Call Your Dentist

If you can’t find the aligner after a quick search, contact your dental provider right away. They will help you decide on the best next step based on where you are in your treatment plan. In some cases, they may advise you to wear your previous aligner to hold your teeth in place. In others, they may instruct you to move on to your next aligner a little early.

Don’t Skip Wearing Something

The most important thing is to avoid leaving your teeth without an aligner for too long. Even a few days without wearing one can cause teeth to start shifting back toward their original position. If instructed by your dentist, wear your previous set of aligners until a replacement is available or until you can switch to the next tray.

Order a Replacement if Needed

If you are early in your aligner cycle, your dentist may order a replacement for you. While waiting for it to arrive, you might need to wear your last tray full-time to prevent setbacks. This is why it’s a good idea to keep your previous set of aligners until you’re sure the next one fits well — they act as a backup in case of loss or breakage.

Losing a clear aligner can feel like a major problem, but quick action can minimize disruption to your treatment. Retrace your steps, call your dental provider, and follow their instructions to stay on track. Being proactive — and careful with where you store your aligners — will keep your smile progress moving forward without unnecessary delays.

About the Author

Dr. Jayme Martinez has been serving smiles in the Dallas community for more than a decade! He is a graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry and has continued his education to include advanced skills like dental sleep medicine, cosmetic dentistry, and implant dentistry. Dr. Martinez also stays current through memberships in organizations including the Texas Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the Dallas County Dental Association. Looking to get a straighter, healthier smile? Come see us for Invisalign treatment! Schedule an appointment online or call (214) 303-9969.