What Are Invisalign® Attachments? The ‘Bumps’ on Your Teeth Explained
- mjlandin
- Apr 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 24
If you're undergoing Invisalign® treatment—or if you're considering it and have noticed a friend who has them—you may be wondering what the small "bumps" on your teeth are for. These are called attachments, and they play a crucial role in the treatment process.
What Are Attachments?
Attachments act as handles that help aligners move your teeth in the right direction—similar to how braces use brackets and wires. Made of tooth-colored material, they blend in as much as possible, though they may be slightly visible from certain angles.
Most patients find attachments more comfortable than braces since they’re covered by the smooth plastic of the aligners most of the time. The only time they may rub against your cheeks is when you remove your aligners to eat or drink anything other than water.
What Shape Are Attachments?
Attachments are custom-designed based on your tooth shape, size, and the specific movements needed for your treatment. Many are rectangular, but some may be ovoid or a combination of shapes to optimize tooth movement.
Do I Need Attachments?
The short answer: Yes! Attachments are essential for moving your teeth efficiently. As one Invisalign® expert brilliantly responded when asked if attachments were necessary: “Do you want that tooth to move?” If the goal is effective and timely treatment, attachments are a must.
Do Attachments Go on Every Tooth?
Attachments are placed on most teeth, but not always all. I often tell my patients that I achieve great results because of my commitment to using attachments strategically. However, if you have dental crowns or other restorative work, attachments may not bond as well to those surfaces, so your orthodontist may avoid placing them there.
If you're concerned about an attachment on a specific tooth—like a front tooth—discuss it with your orthodontist before starting treatment. While we can choose which teeth receive attachments, the best results come from following your orthodontist’s recommendations.
Are Attachments on for the Entire Treatment?
Plan for them to stay on throughout your treatment, but know that Invisalign® is done in stages. For example, your first set of aligners might include 14 trays. At the end of that set, we re-scan your teeth and order new aligners, a process called refinement. During this stage, attachments can be added, removed, or adjusted as needed.
Do Attachments Stain?
Attachments can stain over time, especially if you frequently consume coffee, tea, red wine, curry, or dark-colored foods (all of which can also stain your aligners!). Brushing regularly and rinsing after eating or drinking can help keep them clean.
Will Attachments Make My Aligners Harder to Remove?
Yes, attachments add extra grip, which can make removing your aligners slightly trickier at first. However, with practice, most patients quickly adapt. Your orthodontist can show you the best techniques for easy removal.
Do Attachments Hurt?
When first placed, attachments might feel slightly rough or unusual against your lips and cheeks. But your mouth gets used to them quickly, and they soon become a part of you—barely noticeable after a short time.
What Happens If an Attachment Falls Off?
If an attachment comes off, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. Some attachments are more critical than others, so your orthodontist will decide if it needs to be replaced immediately or if it can wait until your next appointment. Some patients do not notice when an attachment comes off, so this is one thing that is always checked at your Invisalign® appointments; an important reason to continue to see your orthodontist regularly during treatment.
Can I Whiten My Teeth with Attachments On?
Whitening with attachments can lead to uneven coloration (and no one wants an “attachment tattoo”!). Since the area beneath the attachment won’t lighten as much as the surrounding tooth, it’s best to wait until after treatment for professional whitening.
Attachments are a small but powerful part of your Invisalign® journey. Embracing them will help ensure your treatment is as efficient and effective as possible!
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