In this blog, we’ll answer the commonly searched question, “How to clean my Invisalign?” The clear plastic aligners are removable for easy cleaning. However, they are delicate, so it’s important to clean them carefully to avoid damage.
Keep in mind, Invisalign aligners are designed to last for a couple of weeks before moving to the next set in a series. The thin SmartTrack material can warp if you use a hot liquid. Thus, it’s essential to take them out when you drink hot beverages. And, never clean them with hot water.
Orthodontic Excellence has some of the best Invisalign doctors in the Newcastle and Bellevue areas. We provide custom treatments for people of all ages, from kids to adults. Remember, it’s never too late to get started on a beautiful, healthy smile!
Cleaning Your Aligners Keeps Them Healthy and Discreet
Invisalign uses the latest 3D technology and SmartTrack material so that each aligner fits your mouth precisely. Thus, they are comfortable and discreet, and a convenient, efficient way to gradually perfect your smile. Eat what you want, and clean your teeth as you would normally.
Therefore, Invisalign allows for more freedom and convenience. Generally, there are fewer appointments than braces. Plus, there and no wires or brackets to cause abrasions in your mouth.
As a slight downside, you do have to protect the aligners carefully whenever you take them out. Thus, you’ll need to carry a protective case.
Also, you must rinse and clean your aligners daily. Otherwise, the clear plastic begins to look discolored. Worse, bacteria can grow on them, which is unhealthy and can cause bad breath. Of course, nobody wants that!
Now, “how to clean my Invisalign?”
How to Clean My Invisalign
We recommend cleaning your aligners carefully each night before putting them back in. Yes, you’ll sleep with the aligners in place. Thus, they work their magic while you’re in dreamland.
First, develop a nightly cleaning routine, so it becomes a good habit. To clean your aligners, we suggest buying a separate soft-bristle toothbrush. Using a brush that isn’t soft could scuff the aligners. Be sure to keep it where you won’t mistake it for a brush you use for your mouth.
After your last meal or snack, take out the aligners. Brush, floss, and clean your teeth as you would normally. Then, it’s time to use the toothbrush reserved for cleaning the aligners.
What to Use for Cleaning
Notably, Invisalign sells a cleaning system, cleaning crystals, and a sterilizing tray. These are excellent but aren’t required.
Clear liquid soap (not toothpaste) will do the trick! We recommend a clear soap without colorings that could stain the aligners.
Steps to Clean Aligners
Here are the easy steps to clean aligners:
- Rinse your aligners under the tap. (never use hot water)
- Use your designated soft brush and clear soap to brush the aligners on all surfaces.
- Rinse the aligners again until clean.
- Put your aligners back in for the night.
Last step: Go to dreamland! While you sleep, Invisalign will continue to move your teeth to their ideal positions very slowly.
View this post on Instagram
Cleaning During the Day
During the day, it’s a good idea to rinse the aligners whenever you take them out. However, brushing them as you do at night is recommended whenever they don’t look or feel clean. Sometimes, aligners may come into contact with food or beverages. In those cases, it’s always a good idea to do a little more gentle cleaning.
Keeping Them Safe in The Case
Also, it’s essential to place your aligners in their case whenever you take them out. By getting in this habit, you can discourage bacterial growth on the surfaces. As another rule, it’s a good idea to keep the case on your body or purse, so you don’t walk off and forget your case.
However, if you do lose your aligners, Invisalign Teen provides six replacement aligners for free.
Products For Cleaning Retainers
As an alternative to Invisalign cleaning products, you may use cleaning products made for delicate retainers.
Notably, these not the same as products used to clean dentures. Both denture cleaners and toothpaste are too abrasive on the thin aligners.
Following Invisalign or braces, you’ll wear a retainer to make sure your smile stays perfect. Thus, you’ll already have the retainer cleaning products on hand.
Before treatment, we’ll go over all the things to expect with Invisalign, including the cleaning products we recommend.
We hope this information about ‘how to clean my Invisalign’ has been helpful. See more about an incredible offer for Invisalign and braces here.
Have questions? As always, you can reach us by phone. For Bellevue, call 425-747-6335. For Newcastle, call 425-747-4944.
Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and updates. We’re taking every precaution to ensure treatment is safe and convenient for everybody.
View this post on Instagram
