Do’s and Don’ts of How To Clean Invisalign Aligner

Are you looking for tips on how to properly clean your Invisalign aligners? If so, this article is the perfect guide for you! We’ll provide comprehensive information on the dos and don’ts of cleaning Invisalign aligner trays. Not only will this help to keep your teeth healthy, but it will also ensure that your aligners last longer. With our helpful advice, you can easily maintain a beautiful smile with minimal effort!

Basic Cleaning Tips

Rinse After Every Use

It is important to rinse your Invisalign aligners after every use in order to remove any food particles or bacteria that might be stuck within the crevices. This helps to prevent bacteria from building up, which can cause an unpleasant smell and even gum disease. To do this effectively, use lukewarm water and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the aligners for about two minutes. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly afterward so that no soap residue remains.

Use a Cleaning Solution

Along with rinsing your aligners after each use, you should also consider using a cleaning solution on them every few days. You can buy a specialized Invisalign cleaning kit at most drugstores or online retailers, but if you’d rather make your own solution, all you need is equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a cup. Soak your aligners for about 20 minutes and then rinse them with lukewarm water afterward.

Don’t Use Toothpaste

When it comes to cleaning Invisalign, toothpaste should be avoided at all costs as it is abrasive and can cause scratches on the surface of the trays, making them less effective. Additionally, most toothpaste contains detergents that can degrade the material of your aligners over time.

Dry Before Storing

Make sure to thoroughly dry your aligners before storing them in their designated case or container. This will prevent bacteria from growing and help avoid any unpleasant odors from forming. You can do this by using a lint-free cloth or paper towel, as anything with lint can cause damage to your aligners.

Store in a Cool Place

If you’re storing your aligners for an extended period of time, such as when traveling, make sure to put them in a cool place. Heat and humidity can cause the material of the trays to warp and break down over time. Ideally, store them in an airtight container at around room temperature.

Conclusion

Although cleaning Invisalign aligners might seem like a daunting task, it isn’t actually that difficult once you get the hang of it. With our do’s and don’ts guide on how to clean Invisalign aligners, you can maintain a healthy and beautiful smile with minimal effort. Now that you have the basics down pat, maintaining your aligners should be a breeze!

FAQs

1. How do I know when my aligners need to be cleaned?

Your aligners should be cleaned after every use to prevent bacteria from building up. Additionally, they should be cleaned with a cleaning solution at least once or twice per week.

2. Can I use toothpaste to clean my Invisalign trays?

No, it is not recommended to use toothpaste as this can cause scratches on the surface of your aligners and also degrade their material over time. Instead, opt for a specialized cleaning solution or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.

3. How do I store my aligners when not in use?

Your Invisalign trays should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, away from any heat or humidity, to prevent breakage or warping. Additionally, make sure to dry them with a lint-free cloth before storing them in the container.