What Happens If You Don’t Wear Your Invisalign for 22 Hours a Day?

Choosing Invisalign is a smart and convenient way to straighten your teeth discreetly. But while the clear aligners offer flexibility, they still require one thing to work: consistency. At Broad Street Braces in Philadelphia, we often get asked: “What really happens if I don’t wear my aligners for 22 hours a day?” The truth? Skipping wear time can significantly delay—or even derail—your results.

Whether you live in Center City, South Philly, or anywhere in the Philadelphia area, understanding the importance of consistent Invisalign use is key to achieving the smile you’re working toward.

Why 22 Hours a Day Matters

Invisalign aligners use gentle, controlled pressure to gradually move your teeth into place. Each set is custom-made to shift your teeth a small amount. That movement is programmed based on the expectation that you wear the aligners 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.

According to Invisalign’s research, patients who follow wear-time instructions closely are 2.5 times more likely to complete their treatment on time compared to those who do not.

Consequences of Not Wearing Invisalign Enough

If you’re only wearing your aligners 18 or 20 hours a day, your teeth don’t receive enough consistent pressure to move as scheduled. This means you may need to wear each aligner tray for longer than planned, pushing back your overall timeline.

In some cases, aligners may stop fitting properly, especially if your teeth haven’t shifted far enough. This can cause discomfort and require restarting a previous tray or having your treatment re-scanned, adding weeks or even months to your treatment.

Skipping wear time can also lead to relapse. Your teeth may begin to shift back toward their original position, especially during the early stages of treatment. That setback can undo progress and prolong the process.

Delays in treatment also increase the chances of needing additional appointments or replacement aligners, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience.

Tips for Staying on Track

At Broad Street Braces, we provide guidance and tools to help you stay consistent. Many patients find it helpful to use a timer or Invisalign tracking app to monitor wear time each day. Keep your aligners in as much as possible—even during short breaks or coffee runs—and always carry a storage case so they don’t get lost during meals.

Being honest with your orthodontist is key. If you’ve had challenges staying on schedule, let us know. We can adjust your treatment plan or offer strategies to help you stay committed. Invisalign offers flexibility, but it requires discipline to see optimal results.

Why Choose Broad Street Braces for Invisalign in Philadelphia?

Located in South Philadelphia, Broad Street Braces specializes in Invisalign treatment for both teens and adults. Our experienced orthodontists design customized care plans and offer the ongoing support patients need to succeed. We proudly serve patients across South Philly, Center City, University City, and beyond, providing exceptional orthodontic care in a welcoming, modern environment.

Stay Committed—See Results

Skipping aligner wear time might seem harmless in the short term, but it can add significant delays to your treatment and compromise your results. At Broad Street Braces, we’re committed to helping you stick to your Invisalign plan and finish strong—with a confident, healthy smile that lasts.

Ready to learn more about Invisalign in Philadelphia? Contact Broad Street Braces today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward your best smile.