Clear aligners · Coquitlam, BC

What to do if an Invisalign aligner is lost or broken

Do not guess which tray to wear after losing or damaging an aligner. The correct step depends on where you are in the sequence and how long the tray has been worn.

01Understand the problemDiagnosis before appliance
02Compare realistic optionsBraces, aligners, timing and provider
03Plan the full journeyTreatment, monitoring and retention
The practical framework

What matters for this decision

Call the treating office

They may advise staying in the current tray, returning to the previous tray or moving ahead, depending on the situation.

Keep previous trays

Storing recent aligners can be useful if the clinician recommends stepping back temporarily.

Do not force a damaged tray

Sharp edges or significant distortion should be discussed with the office.

Prevent loss

A hard case is the simplest protection when aligners are out of the mouth.

Decision context

Clear-aligner treatment depends on planning, fit, wear and monitoring—not simply receiving trays.

Patients should understand planned movements, wear responsibilities, attachments or elastics, progress checks, refinements and retention.

Clinical destination

myORTHODONTIST Coquitlam

When you are ready for an in-person assessment, care is available through myORTHODONTIST Coquitlam. The practice currently lists Dr. Aly Kanani and Dr. Alireza Haerian Ardekani among its orthodontists and offers braces and Invisalign for children, teens and adults.

1158 The High St #106, Coquitlam, BC V3B 0C6604-949-0654
Questions people ask

Useful answers before you decide

What happens if an aligner does not fit properly?

Contact the treating office rather than simply advancing trays.

Are all clear-aligner cases equally straightforward?

No. Complexity varies with the bite, movements required and other clinical factors.

Why are progress checks important with aligners?

They allow the orthodontic team to compare actual movement with the treatment plan and make changes when necessary.

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Related Coquitlam orthodontic guides

Reference context

These links provide professional, manufacturer or municipal context. They do not replace individualized clinical advice.

Clinical information

Last reviewed September 5, 2026. Educational content only. Treatment availability, provider schedules, fees and office policies can change; confirm current details directly with the clinical practice.