Clear aligners like Invisalign are designed to be worn 20–22 hours per day for the best results. But life happens — aligners get lost, trays break, busy schedules cause you to forget, or you realize you’ve been late switching to the next set. If you find yourself off-track, don’t panic. These situations are common, and with the right response, you can usually get back on schedule without affecting your progress.
Here’s what to do if you get behind with aligners and how to prevent future setbacks.
If You Lose an Aligner
Losing a tray is one of the most common issues during aligner treatment. It can happen at a restaurant, while traveling, or simply by accidentally tossing it away with a napkin.
Here’s what you should do:
- Check your previous set — If you’ve only worn the current aligner for a short time, go back to your most recent set to hold teeth in place.
- Consider moving forward — If you were close to switching to the next set, you may be able to progress early.
- Contact your orthodontist — They can confirm whether to move ahead or order a replacement tray.
If You Break an Aligner
Sometimes trays can crack or warp, especially if exposed to hot drinks or rough handling. If this happens:
- Don’t try to repair it with glue or tape — this could harm your teeth and gums.
- Wear your previous set until you can get guidance.
- Call your orthodontist to ask whether to move ahead or wait for a replacement.
A cracked tray may still be usable if the damage is minor, but always confirm with your provider.
If You Miss Wear Time
Consistency matters with Invisalign. Missing a few hours here and there usually isn’t a problem, but frequent lapses can slow progress.
What to do if you’ve missed time:
- Get back on track immediately — Wear aligners as directed moving forward.
- Add a few extra days to your current set if you missed more than a full day. This ensures teeth fully adjust before advancing.
- Use reminders — Set alarms, use tracking apps, or schedule check-ins with yourself to avoid future lapses.
The goal is to keep wear time as close to 22 hours a day as possible.
If You’re Late Changing Aligners
Sometimes patients forget to switch to their next set or delay because they weren’t wearing trays consistently. If you realize you’re behind schedule:
- Don’t skip ahead — Move to the next aligner only when you’ve completed the necessary wear time for the current set.
- Extend the schedule — It’s better to finish each set fully, even if that means your overall treatment takes a little longer.
- Communicate with your orthodontist — They can adjust your plan if delays have added up.
Slow and steady progress is better than rushing and risking setbacks.
How Delays Affect Treatment
Falling behind once or twice usually won’t cause major problems, but repeated issues can:
- Extend treatment length
- Reduce predictability of tooth movement
- Increase risk of discomfort or poor aligner fit
The more consistent you are, the smoother and faster your treatment will be.
Prevention Tips
The best way to stay on track is to prevent issues before they happen. Try these strategies:
- Use a dedicated case — Never wrap aligners in napkins or leave them out on a table.
- Create a routine — Insert trays immediately after brushing or meals.
- Set calendar reminders — Notifications can keep you on schedule for daily wear and changeovers.
- Pack a backup kit — Carry your case, toothbrush, and floss when you’re away from home.
- Keep your previous set — Always save your last pair of aligners until you’re done with the next one.
With good habits, it’s easier to avoid disruptions.
Getting Back on Track
Even if you lose a tray, break one, or fall behind on your schedule, most issues can be corrected quickly with the right plan. The key is not to ignore the problem — small setbacks are easiest to fix when addressed right away.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering Invisalign, professional guidance ensures your treatment stays on track — even if life throws curveballs along the way. At Speaks Orthodontics in Denver, CO, Dr. Clif Speaks provides personalized Invisalign plans with the support you need to handle lost trays, missed wear time, or late changeovers.
We proudly serve patients across Denver, including Capitol Hill, Washington Park, LoDo, and Cherry Creek.
Schedule your complimentary exam today and start your journey toward a confident, healthy smile.