Everyone’s comfort level per aligner is different, and some teeth may feel “used to” an aligner before it has been worn for two weeks. So why is it that we recommend wearing each one for the full two weeks?
Health and Safety
Each aligner moves all or some of the teeth slightly in a pre-planned way, and the time period allows for the gums, bones and other tissues to heal before it is time to move on to the next set. This keeps the movement safe for the roots of your teeth, and helps them get used to their new position.
Prevent Relapse
If teeth move to a new position too quickly, the dental tissues and bone will not have had time to fill in and heal from the movement, and the teeth will relapse too easily if the aligners are removed for extended periods.
However, if you wear your aligners for two weeks for 22 hours a day, you allow your teeth and tissue to make solid and safe progress, and you can take your aligners for short periods of time to eat a meal and brush your teeth without fear of relapse.
What does this Mean for You?
Because each aligner is worn for two weeks and only includes a certain amount of movement, the movement is safe for the roots of your teeth.
If an aligner gets lost, you can move ahead to the next one, but make sure to wear that one longer to give your teeth time to adjust.
We know you can’t wait for that new smile to be perfected – but follow the instructions and your patience will be rewarded by a healthy and straight smile!