If you have Invisalign, you’ve probably heard how important it is to take proper care of your clear aligners. Throughout your treatment, you’ll want to keep your trays looking and smelling fresh, so it’s crucial to kill the bad bacteria. But do you know the best way to clean your aligners? In this blog, we’ll tell you:
- How to clean Invisalign aligners
- How often to clean them
- How to prevent stains
- And more!
Let’s dive in!
How Do You Clean Your Invisalign Aligners?
There are multiple ways to clean your aligners, but the best methods for cleaning Invisalign are with:
- Soap and water
- Invisalign cleaning crystals
There’s debate about whether toothpaste should be used to clean your trays. However, it’s recommended that you avoid using toothpaste, as it could scratch the aligner material.
How to Clean Invisalign Trays With Soap and Water
When cleaning your trays with this method, use a gentle, clear liquid soap and lukewarm water. Never use hot water to clean your aligners or else they’ll melt or warp. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, thoroughly scrub the trays to remove any debris or food particles. Use a separate toothbrush solely for cleaning purposes to prevent cross-contamination.
How to Clean Invisalign Trays With Cleaning Crystals
Invisalign cleaning crystals are little crystals that dissolve into water to form a solution. They contain safe cleansing agents, such as sodium sulfate, which break down plaque or residue stuck in your aligners' crevices.
To begin cleaning your Invisalign, you’ll thoroughly rinse your trays under water. Then, fill a clean cup with lukewarm water and pour one packet of cleaning crystals into the water. Stir or shake the cup until the crystals are fully dissolved. Next, submerge your aligners in the solution and let them soak for 15-30 minutes. Finally, rinse the trays under running warm water.
With both cleaning methods, you should let your Invisalign trays air dry before putting them back in your mouth or their case.
How Often Should You Clean Your Invisalign Aligners?
Clean your aligners when you’re brushing your teeth in the morning and evening (twice a day). Cleaning and rinsing your trays will prevent bacterial buildup, which can cause unpleasant odors and stains and affect the health of your smile. Regularly cleaning your aligners will ultimately help you stay on track with your treatment plan. You can further avoid any issues by:
- Rinsing your aligners whenever you remove them
- Removing your trays before you eat or drink (anything besides water)
- Rinsing and cleaning your mouth before putting the aligners back in
“But What if I Stain My Invisalign Aligners?”
Remove stains with hydrogen peroxide. You can find hydrogen peroxide at most pharmacies and grocery stores. Use a 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. If there’s also plaque dried on the trays, add two tablespoons of baking soda. It could take hours to remove the stains fully, so you may want to let this solution soak overnight.
Have Any Other Questions?
Reach out to our expert orthodontist and Invisalign Provider, Dr. Justin Silvestre. He is always happy to give advice to patients, and he offers free consultations, including complimentary virtual consultations.
Orthodontic Specialists Indian Valley is located in Souderton, PA, and serves patients from surrounding communities, including Harleysville, Hatfield, Hilltown, Sellersville, Perkasie, Quakertown, and Lansdale.
