How to Clean Invisalign Aligners: Tips from Orthodontists

Importance of Clean Aligners

Clean Invisalign aligners do more than just keep your treatment on track—they play a huge role in your overall dental hygiene. When your aligners are spotless, they don’t trap bacteria, plaque, or food particles against your teeth and gums, which means less risk of cavities and gum issues. It’s like giving your mouth a little spa day every time you clean them. Plus, with fresh aligners, you avoid that not-so-fresh taste and can feel confident that your smile is as healthy as it looks. One of the significant benefits of Invisalign is the ease of maintaining good oral hygiene with clean aligners.

If you’re considering treatment options, like Invisalign for adults, skipping out on cleaning your aligners can lead to some pretty nasty consequences. First off, plaque buildup is a big deal—it can stick to your teeth and aligners, which could slow down your treatment and even cause cavities. Then there’s the bad breath factor. Letting bacteria chill in your aligners is a fast track to a not-so-pleasant smell every time you talk. And don’t forget about potential staining; dirty aligners can get discolored, making your teeth look less than bright. The bottom line is that not cleaning your aligners can mess with your progress and your confidence.

Cleaning Tools:

There are a few things you’ll need to clean your aligners.

• Soft-bristled toothbrush
• Mild, clear liquid soap
• Retainer cleaner solution (e.g., Invisalign Cleaning Crystals)
• Lukewarm water
• Hydrogen peroxide

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Invisalign Aligners

Here’s the step-by-step guide to cleaning your Invisalign Aligners.

• Remove aligners and rinse them under lukewarm (not hot) water.
• Brush aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of clear liquid soap or hydrogen peroxide.
• Ensure to brush both the exterior and interior surfaces.
• Rinse aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water after brushing.

Advanced Cleaning Methods

Do your aligners need a little extra love? Do this as well.

• Retainer Brite: Soak aligners in warm water with a retainer Brite tablet for 15 minutes.
• SonicBrite: Use the sonic cleaner with a solution to remove stubborn plaque.
• DentaSoak: Mix the solution and soak aligners for 15 minutes to kill bacteria and remove plaque.

Here’s the lowdown on keeping your Invisalign trays in top shape: Every time you take them out, make sure to rinse them under water—don’t let saliva dry on them. In the morning, give your trays a good clean. A little hydrogen peroxide mixed with water does wonders; just dip a toothbrush in the solution and gently brush the trays. After eating, rinse your mouth with water, and if you can, brush your teeth before putting the trays back in. Keeping your trays clean is super important for good oral hygiene since it helps remove bacteria and keeps your aligners looking fresh.

Dos and Don’ts for Cleaning Invisalign Aligners

Dos:

• Clean aligners twice a day.
• Soak aligners daily in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals.
• Use a designated soft-bristled toothbrush.

Don’ts:

• Avoid using toothpaste, as it is abrasive.
• Do not use hot water, as it can warp aligners.
• Refrain from using mouthwash or harsh chemicals.

Proper Storage of Invisalign Aligners

Storing your aligners in their case when you’re not wearing them is a must—it keeps them safe from damage and bacteria. To keep things extra clean, make sure you’re washing the case regularly with warm water and a clear, mild soap. And don’t forget to dry your aligners before you store them to prevent any mold from growing. These little habits go a long way in keeping your aligners—and your smile—in top shape!

Addressing Common Issues

If you lose or damage an aligner, don’t panic—just contact your orthodontist right away. In the meantime, you can wear your previous or next set of aligners as a temporary fix.

If you’re dealing with discomfort or soreness from a new set of aligners, over-the-counter pain relievers can help, and applying a cold compress can ease the soreness. 

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is key to making sure your treatment is effective and your oral health stays on point. Sticking to a daily cleaning routine and keeping up with regular check-ups will help you get the best results. A little effort every day goes a long way in ensuring your smile is as healthy and beautiful as possible!

Schedule a consultation at Clover Orthodontic Studio in West Hollywood today for personalized Invisalign care and advice. You can reach out to us by phone or email—whatever works best for you! Our email is info@helloclover.com, and our phone number is (310) 388-8158. We’re here to help! If you prefer to book online, we’ve got you covered; you can schedule an appointment by clicking the calendar icon that shows up anywhere on our site, or if you have additional questions, fill out our contact form.