My Invisalign Aligners Don’t Fit – What Should I Do?

July 1, 2025

Close up of an Invisalign tray

You’re ready to straighten out your smile with Invisalign clear aligners, but you’ve run into a bit of a snag. Your aligners don’t seem to fit quite right. Maybe they feel too snug or too loose – all you know is they feel strange and uncomfortable. What should you do?

The proper Invisalign fit is crucial for your treatment, so it’s a good idea to be looking for tips! Keep reading for expert recommendations.

Wait for a Couple of Days

If your Invisalign trays are feeling too tight, it is possible that your teeth simply haven’t adjusted to the aligners yet. Wear your Invisalign for 22 hours and wait about two to three days. If the discomfort starts to subside, then they likely fit correctly. Remember, meeting your 22-hour wear time requirement is important; if you’re not doing this each and every day, it’ll take much longer for your teeth to adjust and move into their new positions.

Use Invisalign Chewies

Invisalign chewies are soft, small cylinders meant to help wearers get used to their aligners, but they can also help with fit if the problem is minor. You’ll bite down on them for about five to 10 minutes. And that’s it! The pressure should help the trays press against your teeth more properly.

Ask About Backtracking

Although not necessarily common, poor-fitting Invisalign could mean that your teeth aren’t quite ready for a new set of trays. In this case, you may need to “backtrack” and wear your previous trays until your teeth are in the proper positions. Backtracking should never be done without a dentist’s approval, though, so make sure to give yours a call before trying this method!

Visit Your Dentist

If all else fails, you should make an appointment with your dentist. They’ll be able to examine your aligners more closely and identify the problem. Depending on the situation, they might modify your treatment plan, make adjustments to your aligners, or arrange for a replacement. Either way, they’ll make sure you get back on track!

About the Practice

Our team of dentists at Frandsen Dental of West Jordan are committed to providing patients with a positive care experience. If you’re worried about the fit of your Invisalign aligners, they’ll gladly take a closer look at your trays and work to solve the issue. With such a dedicated and friendly team caring for your smile, you can be fully confident in your treatment plan! To contact our office with questions or an appointment request, call 801-890-0030.