Why is there a space between aligner and attachment? (Photo)

Question

I found a picture on Google and put a green circle to indicate of what I mean. Notice the space between the bottom of the bump, for the attachment, and the attachment itself? There's a pretty big gap, the attachment is not completely filling the bump. I don't wanna ask my orthodontist because I don't want to risk having him/her will say that it's normal to avoid fixing it. Thanks!

Ben Fishbein, DDS · Answer

It depends how well the entire tray is fitting.  A small gap between the attachment and tray is normal, and after wearing the particular invisalign tray for a certain amount of time, this gap should get smaller.  The idea is the tray is made so the teeth will 'end up' in the position of that tray, so if there is a gap between the attachment and the tray, the teeth should move with tray wear to make the gap smaller (or non-existent).  I would recommend expressing your concerns to your orthodontist (even if you don't want to), as they are the one's that understand the overall treatment plan for your case.  Good luck!

Nicholas Cobb, DDS · Answer

Invisalign has two types of attachments standard and optimized. With an optimized attachment the forces are being placed at specific points on the attachment and not the entire thing. Therefore, the tray will not touch the attachment all the way around and there will be a gap. So, yes this is normal if it is that type of attachment. If it is a rectangular attachment that is not the case.

Raj Kumar, BDS, LDSRCS · Answer

The Invisalign aligners are the thinnest aligners around, being only 0.3mm. This makes them virtually invisible.AS they fit sometimes due to the shape of the edges of the teeth there will be a small gap. Sometimes just the thickness of the aligner makes it look like there is a gap.In most cases however the teeth may not be moving as the Invisalign videos have planned and a gap will appear.Do not be alarmed as this is quite common and the dentist will review this regularly.In most cases the teeth can be well aligned even if there is 90% fit.Be sure to inform your dentist of any concerns and they will be able to reassure you and adjust the treatment.

Why is there a space between aligner and attachment? (Photo)

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Why is there a space between aligner and attachment? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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