Troubleshooting Common Aligner Problems with Your NewSmile Treatment

March 25, 2025

While NewSmile clear aligners are designed for comfort and convenience, you might occasionally encounter minor issues during your treatment. Knowing how to troubleshoot these common problems can help you stay on track with your smile journey and minimize any disruptions. Here's a guide to addressing some typical aligner concerns.

1. Initial Discomfort or Soreness:

Problem: When you switch to a new set of aligners, it's common to experience some pressure, discomfort, or mild soreness as your teeth begin to shift.
Troubleshooting:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort.
Soft foods: Stick to softer foods for the first day or two after switching aligners.
Wear aligners at night: Switching to a new set before bed can help you sleep through the initial period of discomfort.
Be patient: The soreness usually subsides within a day or two as your mouth adjusts.

2. Difficulty Removing Aligners:

Problem: Sometimes, aligners can feel tightly fitted and challenging to remove.
Troubleshooting:

Start from the back: Gently try to unclip the aligner from your back molars first, using your fingertips.
Work your way forward: Once the back is loose, slowly work your way towards the front teeth, gently peeling the aligner away.
Use an aligner removal tool: If you consistently struggle, consider using a specialized aligner removal tool, which can provide a better grip.
Ensure proper seating: Make sure your aligners are fully seated when you put them in. If they aren't, they might feel tighter and harder to remove later.

3. Aligners Feeling Loose:

Problem: If your current set of aligners feels loose before the end of your prescribed wear time, it could indicate that your teeth haven't tracked properly with the previous set.
Troubleshooting:

Ensure consistent wear: Double-check that you've been wearing your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day.
Contact NewSmile Support: If you've been diligent with wear time and the aligners still feel loose, contact the NewSmile support team. They may advise you to go back to your previous set for a few extra days or provide further guidance.

4. Sharp Edges or Irritation:

Problem: Occasionally, an aligner might have a slightly sharp edge that irritates your gums or cheeks.
Troubleshooting:

Orthodontic wax: Applying a small amount of orthodontic wax (available at most pharmacies) over the sharp edge can provide temporary relief.
File gently (with caution): If the irritation persists, you can try very gently filing the sharp edge with a clean, fine-grit nail file. Be extremely careful not to alter the shape of the aligner significantly. If you're unsure, contact NewSmile support.

5. Cloudy or Stained Aligners:

Problem: Over time, aligners can become cloudy or stained, making them more noticeable.
Troubleshooting:

Rinse after removal: Rinse your aligners immediately after taking them out to prevent food particles from drying.
Brush gently: Brush your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and mild, clear soap or an aligner-specific cleaner. Avoid toothpaste.
Avoid colored drinks and food with aligners in: Only drink plain water while wearing your aligners. Remove them before consuming other beverages or food.
Consider soaking: Soaking your aligners in an aligner cleaning solution can help remove stains and bacteria.

6. Bad Odor:

Problem: If your aligners develop an unpleasant odor, it's usually due to bacteria buildup.
Troubleshooting:

Thorough cleaning: Ensure you are rinsing and brushing your aligners regularly.
Soaking: Soaking in an aligner cleaning solution can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners.

7. Lost or Broken Aligners:

Problem: Aligners can sometimes get lost or accidentally broken.
Troubleshooting:

Contact NewSmile Support immediately: Inform the NewSmile support team as soon as possible. They will assess your situation and advise you on the next steps, which may involve temporarily wearing your previous set or ordering a replacement set.

When to Contact NewSmile Support:

While many minor issues can be resolved at home, it's important to contact the NewSmile support team if you experience any of the following:

Significant pain that doesn't subside with over-the-counter medication.
A severely ill-fitting or damaged aligner.
Concerns about your treatment progress.
Any other unusual or persistent problems.

Staying on Track with Your NewSmile Journey:

By understanding these common aligner problems and their solutions, you can navigate your NewSmile treatment with greater confidence and ensure a smoother path to your straighter smile. Remember that consistency with wearing your aligners and maintaining good oral hygiene are key to a successful outcome.

Ready to experience the convenience and support of NewSmile? Explore our

Fast Track Clear Aligners for a potentially quicker transformation or our flexible Newsmile Monthly Plan for an affordable way to achieve your smile goals. Our support team is always here to help!