Survey- how do you remove aligners with attachments?

[Lisa Jane Fox]

I have had Invisalign since March 2 and have had attachments for a little over 2 weeks for my top and bottom teeth. I got 15 attachments all on the front teeth. After I put the aligners in with attachments it was impossible to get them off. I got a terrible cramp on my hand and arm because I was so tense. MY hand gets numb and I think I pinched a nerve. (I'm seeing another doctor about that.) I found a tool on the internet called the Outie Tool and fortunately I bought it and it helps me remove the aligners, thank goodness.

My question is, what is your method for removing aligners with attachments? Some of you seem to find it a breeze, so I'd love to hear about your techniques!

[kezzakattami]

Hi Lisa Jane, I have 3 attachments up top and 8 at the bottom. When taking my top ones off I tend to unhook the back teeth on each side (this can be a little painful on the front teeth when Im in week 1 of each tray), then get about 4 finger nails behind the front of the tray and pull down until it snaps off. My biggest fear is breaking the trays whilst Im removing them, so i try not to pull in just one particular spot when taking them off.

With my lowers, I get both thumb nails under the right hand side and push up until it clicks off, them use both thumb nails again at then front, then the left hand side...pushing them off just enough as i work from one side round to the other.

I imagine the aligners are much stronger than what I give them credit for (!) but Im not willing to risk delaying my treatment should I break one!

Hope this helps anyway

[Lisa Jane Fox]

Thanks Kezza!
It sounds like you have some strong finger nails! Last week I almost broke off the tail end of my bottom aligner cause I was snapping it up to high when I removed it. I was able to continue to wear the torn aligner until my next aligner change. Now I'm more careful about pushing the aligners off my teeth too far. The aligners do seem very strong, thank goodness.

[Teresuzza]

I start with the back ones as well and use a tissue or paper towel also helps. I have six attachments on the top and three on the bottom. They're usually more difficult when I start the trays but it gets easier after about the third or fourth day.

[myhollywoodsmile]

Hi there,
My first couple of weeks with attachments I struggled, but now I find it very easy- a little too easy really as there is no reason not to snack! I just pop the backs of both sides on the bottom and work around to the front, which takes maybe 2-5 seconds. With the tops I start on one side and work my way around my mouth. That is also very quick. I think once you get the hang of it it's ok. I find it as easy as I did without attachments now.