What do you do if one tooth is not moving properly? (photos)

Question

I am on aligner 16 of 26 and l have noticed in the past few trays on a space on the bottom of my top aligner that one of my teeth is supposed to move down into, but it has not yet moved down and it's been 3 weeks. (It is the tooth by my front tooth) I don't want to fall behind on this one tooth and I'm not sure why it won't move down or if there's something I can do to make it move down. What should do you suggest?

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Hello there,A great way to know what to expect is to ask your dentist to show you an animated 3-D preview of your teeth movements. He/she will show you exactly what changes to expect and when to expect them.  I often times do this for my patients that are anticipating changes that have not yet occurred.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MO area (O'Fallon, IL)Real Self 100

Jennifer S. Stachel, DMD · Answer

Dear emil1725,Thank you for posting your question on RealSelf. I will do my best to provide an answer with the information given. I definitely would schedule an appointment to address this with your Invisalign provider. He or she may have to adjust your treatment plan to place a different attachment and/or create space for the movement to take place.  I hope this helps and good luck!Best,Dr. Jenn

Sheila Mahooti, DDS · Answer

Your teeth should move according to the clincheck plan. Sometimes if the contacts between the teeth are too tight, or there is no room for the tooth to move, one or more teeth could lag in their movement. Go to your dentist so they can determine why that tooth hasn't been moving. They may need to make new aligners, relieve to contacts , etc,.....

Patrick M. Ohlenforst, DDS, MS · Answer

This is, unfortunately, a common issue with upper lateral incisors.  You may be due for a "reboot" or additional aligners.  Ask your orthodontist at your next visit.  It will work out....be patient (but proactive!).

Courtney L. Lavigne, DMD (retired) · Answer

Hi emil1725,I would recommend a quick appointment with your treating dentist. They can see the intended movement of the tooth on your Clin Check and assess the fit of the current aligner to be sure things are progressing as intended. If that tooth is in fact not following the intended course of movement, the dentist has the option to take new impressions and re-direct the course of remaining treatment. A consult with your dentist is the best next step!Good luck!

What do you do if one tooth is not moving properly? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Stubborn tooth

Answer: Stubborn tooth

Answer: One tooth not moving properly

Answer: One tooth not moving properly

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What do you do if one tooth is not moving properly? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Stubborn tooth

Answer: Stubborn tooth

Answer: One tooth not moving properly

Answer: One tooth not moving properly

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.