Best Practices for Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners
Choosing Invisalign is an important step toward achieving a healthier, more confident smile. However, maintaining clean aligners is equally important to ensure effective treatment and oral health. Without proper care, aligners can accumulate bacteria, develop odours, and become discoloured. Fortunately, a consistent cleaning routine can keep them clear, fresh, and functioning as intended throughout your treatment journey.Why Keeping Your Invisalign Aligners Clean Matters
Your aligners sit right against your teeth for most of the day. That makes them a prime place for bacteria to grow if left unwashed. Even if your teeth are ideally brushed, putting in dirty trays cancels out the effort.Why does cleanliness matter so much?
- Prevents Bad Breath: Nobody wants that plastic-morning-breath mix.
- Reduces Stains: Clear trays should stay clear, not yellow.
- Keeps Cavities Away: Dirty aligners carry germs back onto clean teeth.
- Helps You Stay on Track: Fresh trays fit better and feel better.
Daily Cleaning Routine for Invisalign Aligners
A good cleaning routine doesn’t have to be a long one. Think of it as brushing your teeth—simple, fast, and necessary. Here’s what to do every single day:- Rinse Right Away: Always rinse your aligners in lukewarm water when you remove them. This helps wash away dry saliva and loose particles.
- Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (not your regular one) and brush the trays with water. Do not use toothpaste—it can be too harsh and cause scratches.
- Use Mild Soap: A clear, unscented hand soap can work well. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly so no soap taste lingers.
- Clean Before Bed: Give your trays a quick brush after dinner and again before popping them in at bedtime.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Aligners
A few cleaning mistakes can damage your trays or even affect your treatment. Let’s go over the biggest don’ts:- Don’t Use Hot Water: It can warp the plastic, changing the fit.
- Don’t Use Toothpaste: It’s too abrasive.
- Don’t Soak in Mouthwash: Most types have dyes or alcohol that stain or damage trays.
- Don’t Forget to Clean the Case: Dirty aligner cases can reintroduce bacteria.
- Don’t Skip Cleaning: Even if they look clean, they’re not. Always clean daily.
Deep Cleaning: Weekly Methods to Keep Aligners Fresh
In addition to your daily routine, you’ll want to deep-clean your trays once or twice a week. This removes any buildup that regular brushing misses.Here are some simple, safe options:
- Retainer Cleaning Tablets: Drop a tablet into a glass of water and soak trays for 15 minutes.
- White Vinegar Soak: Mix one part vinegar with three parts water. Soak for 20 minutes, then rinse well.
- Baking Soda Solution: Blend one tablespoon of baking soda in a cup of water. Soak for 30 minutes, then brush gently.
On-the-Go Cleaning Tips
Life doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes you’re at work, in a car, or just not near your sink. Still, aligners need care, especially if you’ve removed them to eat.Quick ways to stay fresh:
- Pack an Aligner Kit: Keep a travel toothbrush, a small bottle of clear soap, and a case in your bag.
- Rinse When You Can: Even a quick rinse under water is better than nothing.
- Chewies Help: After re-inserting trays, use chewies to re-seat them properly.
- Avoid Sugary Drinks: Never drink anything other than water with your trays in.
Proper Storage When Not Wearing Aligners
Leaving your aligners on a napkin or countertop might not seem like a big deal, but it’s one of the fastest ways to lose or contaminate them.Here’s what to do instead:
- Always Use the Case: It protects the trays from damage, dirt, or pets.
- Dry Before Storing: A quick pat with a clean paper towel prevents bacteria.
- Avoid Heat or Sunlight: Don’t leave trays in a hot car or near a window.
- Clean the Case Weekly: Rinse it daily and give it a deep clean once a week.