One of the main benefits of Invisalign® is that it’s discrete.
The aligners are virtually transparent, and they won’t affect your appearance or lifestyle in any way – providing that you clean them regularly.
Each aligner or tray must be worn for a minimum of 20-22 hours per day. And as a result, bacteria can very easily build-up, leading to discolouration and odours – and potentially having a negative impact on your overall oral health. So, it’s crucial to look after them properly.
Here we offer our advice on how to clean Invisalign® successfully and ensure your invisible trays stay just that… invisible.
5 tips to keep your clear aligners clean and fresh
1. Brush the aligners twice daily
First things first, we recommend brushing your Invisalign® twice daily – just like your teeth. Once in the morning after you’ve slept in the aligners. Once in the evening, before you go to bed.
Simply use a clear liquid soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the surface. This will help to remove any bacteria, plaque, dried saliva, and food particles. Then, rinse the trays thoroughly using lukewarm water.
You should never use toothpaste or scented soaps to clean Invisalign® – as these can leave residue, cause staining and may even create an unpleasant taste. We also advise against using particularly hot or cold water when rinsing the trays, as this can warp and damage the plastic.
2. Rinse after each removal
In addition to your morning and evening cleaning routine, it’s also a good idea to rinse your Invisalign® trays every time you take them out of your mouth.
It may seem like an inconvenience, especially if you’re not at home – but it’s definitely worth it.
It only takes a couple of minutes to give them a quick rinse under the tap. Yet, it’s an easy way to remove any food particles, discourage a build-up of bacteria and prevent the accumulation of dried saliva. Again, just remember to check the temperature of the water before you start.
3. Soak the trays every day
This is the best way to give your Invisalign® a thorough clean.
Once you’ve cleaned and brushed the trays, allow them to soak in a cleaning solution for a few minutes. You only have to do it once a day – either in the morning or evening, depending on what suits your daily routine more. But it can make a huge difference and will ensure the aligners aren’t harbouring any invisible bacteria.
Invisalign® sell various cleaning products for this purpose, including Steraligner and Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals. But a cheaper and more accessible option is to use denture cleaning tablets. These can be easily bought at your local supermarket. Just follow the instructions on the pack to create the cleaning solution, soak, and ensure your trays are germ-free and minty fresh.
4. Never eat or drink with Invisalign®
Whilst wearing the aligners, the only thing that should pass your lips is water.
Invisalign® trays are not designed to support the pressure of chewing. Food can also very easily get stuck in the crevices of the plastic and some drinks are known to cause staining and discolouration. Therefore, to avoid damage, it’s worth taking them out every time you eat or drink – and be sure to brush and floss your teeth before you pop them back in.
Again, this may feel like a bit of a hassle – particularly if it means having to carry a toothbrush when you go out. But it’s an easy way to avoid a build-up of bacteria and the associated dental issues.
5. Store your Invisalign® correctly
When you’re not wearing them, always ensure your aligners are stored in the case provided.
For a start, this will prevent them from getting lost or damaged – meaning you won’t have to pay for any replacements. Leaving them exposed to the open air has also been shown to encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, so it’ll also help to maintain their clean condition.
If you do forget and leave them out for a few hours, don’t panic. You can still use them. Just make sure you clean, soak, and rinse each aligner thoroughly before putting it back in your mouth.
Want to find out more about Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is now one of our most popular treatments, here at Kiln Lane Dental. It’s fair to say, we know everything there is to know about these revolutionary plastic trays – and, over the last few years, we’ve helped countless patients make their dream perfectly aligned smile a reality.
Lots of information on Invisalign® can be found throughout the site, including in our previous blogs ‘Invisalign® – the best way to straighten teeth’, ‘Adult braces’ and ‘3 benefits of Invisalign® braces’. So, to find out more, it’s worth taking a look at these.
Or, if you have any questions – either about the treatment itself or how to keep Invisalign® retainers clean – you’re welcome to get in touch with the friendly team here at our St Helens Dental Clinic Either give us a call on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and a member of the team will respond as soon as possible.