Invisalign aligners are a terrific alternative to traditional metal braces. Soft, strong, and safe, Invisalign is a great choice for a beautiful smile.
Daily Cleaning for Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are easy to clean. Just like your teeth, you should clean them daily to prevent discoloration and bacterial growth.
It’s a good idea to clean your aligners when you first wake up. Just like brushing your teeth first thing, you should rinse your aligners to eliminate overnight buildup of bacteria.
- Remove your aligners from your mouth
- Rinse your Invisalign trays under water and brush gently with or without a little bit of toothpaste before putting them in your mouth again
When you do take your aligners out, be sure to put them in a case so they are protected.
Cleaning Solutions for Soaking Invisalign Aligners
There are several ways you can clean your invisalign aligners.
- Toothpaste and your toothbrush are the most simple method for cleaning your aligners every day.
- Invisalign sells a proprietary Cleaning Solution designed specifically for cleaning Invisalign trays. These crystals or tablets dissolve in water and the trays are soaked in the solution. They are thorough and effective.
- Generic Retainer Cleaning Products
Like Invisalign cleaners, these are available as a powder or tablet that dissolves easily in water. They target bacteria and plaque, and are both simple and effective. - Liquid Soap
Less expensive than aligner cleaning or retainer cleaning product options, cold water and a gentle, clear, antibacterial liquid soap is another appropriate soaking method for Invisalign aligners. - Vinegar and Water
Equal parts of lukewarm water with distilled white vinegar can also be used to soak Invisalign aligners. - Baking Soda Solution
Aligners can also be cleaned utilizing a tablespoon of baking soda placed in a half cup of water. - Peroxide Solution
While hydrogen peroxide is excellent at killing bacteria, soaking aligners using this method requires a 30 minute time period, which is a longer cleaning period than most other methods. You’ll want to create a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water to soak your aligner trays. Be sure to thoroughly rinse off the peroxide before placing trays in your mouth.
Remember, whatever aligner cleaning method you use:
- Rinse aligners when you remove them from your mouth
- Keep them in a protective case when not in your mouth
- Use only a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean aligners after soaking or rinsing them.
How NOT to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners
Along with important care and cleaning must-dos, there are some things you should avoid when caring for your Invisalign aligners.
- Don’t Use Mouthwash to Soak Aligners
The colored dye used in many mouthwash solutions can stain your clear aligners - Don’t Wash Aligners in the Dishwasher
The hot water used in dishwashers damages and distorts aligners - Avoid Cleansing Soaps Containing Dye
Just like mouthwash, cleansing soaps with colored dye added will stain clear aligners - Avoid Boiling Your trays Boiling hot water can warp the tray shape and hurt your skin
Learn More About Invisalign
At Godfrey Dentistry, we’re ready and waiting to answer any questions you might have about Invisalign. To learn more contact us today!