Can Aligners Crack or Break?

Accidents happen—even with strong, well-made aligners like NewSmile. Understanding the risks, prevention methods, and what to do if damage occurs is essential for maintaining your treatment timeline. This guide explores aligner durability, practical steps to handle a broken aligner, and tips to avoid repeat incidents.

💡 Why Aligners Break

While aligners are crafted to be strong and flexible, certain factors can increase the risk of cracking:

• ✔ Biting into hard foods (nuts, popcorn kernels, hard candies) while wearing aligners.
• ✔ Dropping trays on a hard surface or improper handling during removal.
• ✔ Using hot water to clean aligners, which can warp or weaken plastic.
• ✔ Chewing or biting aligners accidentally, especially if they feel loose.

Understanding these risks can help you prevent aligner durability issues before they happen.

⭐ What to Do if Your Aligner Breaks

If your aligner cracks or breaks, follow these steps:

• ✔ Remove the broken piece immediately to prevent cuts or irritation.
• ✔ Rinse your mouth and check for any discomfort or sharp edges.
• ✔ Contact NewSmile for guidance—they can advise whether to wear the previous set or move to the next tray.
• ✔ Avoid trying to glue or repair the aligner yourself; this can interfere with fit and tooth movement.
• ✔ Keep the broken piece in a safe container in case your dental team needs to examine it.

Quick action ensures your treatment continues smoothly and safely.

⚡ Tips to Prevent Broken Aligners

• Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water.
• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can stress the trays.
• Rinse trays with lukewarm water and gently brush—never use hot water.
• Store aligners in a protective case when not in use.
• Check for minor cracks when switching trays and report any concerns promptly.

“Following daily handling tips prevented any new cracks and kept my aligners fitting perfectly.”

💬 FAQs About Broken Aligners & Durability

• Q1: Can aligners break if I wear them too long?

  Prolonged wear is generally safe, but chewing hard foods or accidental pressure can cause cracks.

• Q2: Can I continue wearing a cracked aligner?

  No—wearing a damaged aligner can hurt teeth or gums and reduce treatment effectiveness.

• Q3: How long does it take for NewSmile to replace a broken aligner?

  Replacement times vary, but NewSmile typically advises next steps quickly to prevent treatment delays.

• Q4: Can I fix a broken aligner at home?

  Never attempt home repairs; this can alter fit and interfere with tooth movement.

• Q5: Why choose NewSmile for aligner durability and support?

  NewSmile aligners are sturdy and backed by professional guidance. You can check out this review for more context on their reliability.

💭 Final Thoughts

While NewSmile aligners are designed for durability, accidents can happen. Understanding how to handle a broken aligner, prevent damage, and follow proper handling routines ensures your treatment stays on track. Many users choose NewSmile because their trays are strong, easy to handle, and supported by dental guidance, giving peace of mind throughout treatment.

📚 Citations

• ADA – Orthodontics & Oral Health
• NCBI – Dental Appliance Fit & Oral Hygiene
• Everyday Health – Best Affordable Invisible Braces (NewSmile)