How to Clean Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign aligners are a safe and discreet treatment for correcting bite issues and straightening teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are not visible and can be removed as needed. However, if you plan on using Invisalign braces – you should know that they require thorough cleaning and a replacement every two weeks. Remember to take extra care of your aligners, or you will find them getting smelly and stained within days.

The Difference Between Rinsing and Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign aligners spend the entire day in your mouth. They come in contact with food, drinks, and mouth bacteria. If you only rinse your aligners, they may appear clean but contain unseen bacteria. The bacteria build-up on Invisalign aligners can harm your teeth, gums, and overall health.

Here is the correct procedure to clean your Invisalign aligners –

• Rinse your aligners with water when you take them off at night.
• Clean your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush (different from the one you use for your teeth) and a gentle soap.
• Rinse after brushing and store in the provided protective case when not used.

What Are the Different Cleansers You May Use & How to Clean Invisalign Aligners?

1. Soap & Water –Mix the soap in the water and allow your aligners to soak in them for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse them after soaking.
2. Vinegar & Water – Soak the aligners in a water-vinegar solution for 20-30 minutes and rinse them with cold water afterwards.
3. Baking Soda & Water – Dissolve one tablespoon of baking soda in a cup of water. Then soak your aligners in the solution for 60 minutes and rinse them.
4. Steraligner – Steraligner contains a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and rubbing alcohol – that disinfects the aligner as it cleans.
5. Invisalign Cleaning Crystals – Invisalign cleaning crystals remove stains, foul odors, bacteria, and plaque from your aligners. After soaking the aligners in the solution, brush and rinse.

How Often Should You Clean Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign aligners should be cleaned every night when you take them off. Forgetting to clean your aligners can make them smelly, stained and infested with bacteria. You should also clean them if you mistakenly drink a colored liquid that may stain them.

How to Care for Invisalign Aligners?

Do’s

1. Rinse Your Aligners Regularly – Give your aligners a thorough rinse every time you take them out of your mouth. It helps remove any food particles, bacteria or saliva on them.
2. Brush & Floss – Before putting your aligners on, brush and floss your teeth to keep them bacteria-free.
3. Soak Your Aligners in Cleaning Solution – Soaking removes any stains or bacteria on your aligners; remember to soak them in a good cleaning solution every day for at least 15-20 minutes.
4. Store Aligners Properly – Invisalign aligners have a protective case that prevents damage. After you clean your aligners every night, store them in the case for the night.
5. Clean Gently – Use a gentle soap or cleansing solution and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your Invisalign aligner. Do not use toothpaste or an abrasive cleanser.

Don’ts

1. No Eating/Drinking – Avoid eating or drinking when wearing the invisalign aligners.
2. Never use Hot Water to Clean – Never use hot water to clean the aligners. Use lukewarm or room-temperature water only.
3. Don’t Expose Aligners to Harsh Chemicals – Harsh cleaning chemicals such as mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol-based solutions can damage the surface of your aligners. Avoid using them.
4. Avoid Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush – Don’t use hard-bristled toothbrushes for cleaning your Invisalign aligners; they can scratch or damage the surface of the aligners.
5. Don’t Forget to Clean Your Aligners – Never forget to clean your aligners to avoid bacteria buildup, bad breath and tooth decay.

Keeping your Invisalign aligners fresh and hygienic is essential to your tooth alignment treatment. It enables your teeth to realign their positions without the risk of tooth decay or oral health issues.
Putnam Orthodontics hosts an expert team under Dr. Satish Pai, an experienced orthodontist in Carmel Hamlet and Briarcliff Manor. If you have any more questions about cleaning your invisalign, get in touch. Our team would be happy to assist you.