Common Mistakes in Cleaning Invisalign Aligners and How to Avoid Them
March 20, 2024

Common Mistakes in Cleaning Invisalign Aligners and How to Avoid Them

By cleaninvisalign

Learn how to clean Invisalign aligners properly and avoid common mistakes like using toothpaste, hot water, and harsh chemicals. Don’t skip the rinse step!

Using toothpaste for cleaning

One common mistake people make when cleaning their Invisalign aligners is using toothpaste. While toothpaste is great for cleaning your teeth, it can actually be harmful to your Invisalign aligners. Toothpaste contains abrasive particles that can scratch the surface of your aligners, making them more prone to collecting bacteria and becoming discolored. It’s important to avoid using toothpaste as a cleaning agent for your Invisalign aligners to ensure they remain clean and clear throughout your treatment.

Instead of using toothpaste, opt for a gentle, unscented soap to clean your Invisalign aligners. Mix a small amount of soap with lukewarm water, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the aligners. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly with water before placing them back in your mouth. This method will help keep your aligners clean without causing any damage to the surface.

Another alternative to toothpaste is using specialized aligner cleaning crystals or tablets. These products are designed specifically for cleaning Invisalign aligners and are safe to use. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging to ensure your aligners are properly cleaned and sanitized.

It’s important to remember that while toothpaste is great for cleaning your teeth, it should not be used to clean your Invisalign aligners. By avoiding this common mistake, you can ensure that your aligners remain clean, clear, and free from any damage that could compromise your treatment.

Soaking in hot water

Soaking Invisalign aligners in hot water may seem like a good idea to kill off any bacteria, but it can actually damage the aligners and affect their fit. Hot water can cause the plastic material to warp, leading to a poor fit and potentially slowing down your orthodontic treatment.

It’s important to always use lukewarm water when cleaning your Invisalign aligners. Lukewarm water is gentle enough to clean the aligners without causing any damage to the plastic material. It also helps to remove any bacteria or plaque buildup without compromising the fit of the aligners.

If you want to give your Invisalign aligners a thorough clean, consider using a recommended cleaning solution provided by your orthodontist. These solutions are specifically designed to clean the aligners without damaging them, ensuring that they remain in good condition throughout your treatment.

In conclusion, soaking Invisalign aligners in hot water can do more harm than good. It’s best to stick to lukewarm water and use a recommended cleaning solution to ensure that your aligners remain clean and undamaged.

Skipping the rinse step

One common mistake that people make when cleaning their Invisalign aligners is skipping the rinse step. After removing your aligners, it’s important to rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any saliva or plaque buildup. Skipping this step can lead to the buildup of bacteria and cause bad odor and discoloration on your aligners.

Furthermore, failing to rinse your aligners can also impact your oral hygiene. The remnants of saliva and plaque left on the aligners can transfer back onto your teeth when you put them back in your mouth, leading to potential dental issues and cavities.

To avoid this mistake, make it a habit to rinse your Invisalign aligners every time you remove them. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the aligners with clear, warm water to ensure that they are clean and free from any residue.

In addition to rinsing, it’s also important to properly store your aligners in their designated case when not in use. This helps to protect them from exposure to external elements and prevents the accumulation of bacteria and debris that can compromise their cleanliness.

By being diligent with rinsing and proper storage, you can prevent the risk of bacterial growth and ensure that your Invisalign aligners remain hygienic and clear, allowing you to continue your teeth straightening treatment with confidence.

Ignoring the importance of brushing

One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their Invisalign aligners is ignoring the importance of brushing. Simply rinsing the aligners with water or soaking them in a cleaning solution is not enough to remove plaque and bacteria. Brushing your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste is crucial for keeping them clean and free from harmful bacteria.

When you ignore the importance of brushing your Invisalign aligners, you are putting yourself at risk for developing cavities and gum disease. Plaque can easily build up on the aligners, especially if you are not brushing them regularly. This can then transfer to your teeth, leading to oral health issues that could have been easily avoided.

It is important to establish a daily routine for cleaning your Invisalign aligners, and this routine should always include brushing them with toothpaste. By brushing them each time you brush your teeth, you can ensure that your aligners stay clean and odor-free, allowing you to confidently wear them throughout the day.

Don’t make the mistake of overlooking the importance of brushing when it comes to caring for your Invisalign aligners. Make it a priority to incorporate brushing into your daily routine, and you will be rewarded with a healthier, cleaner smile.

Using harsh chemicals

One common mistake when cleaning Invisalign aligners is using harsh chemicals. It may be tempting to use strong cleaning agents to ensure that the aligners are completely sanitized, but this can actually do more harm than good. Harsh chemicals can erode the plastic material of the aligners, causing them to become discolored and even lose their shape over time. Not only that, but these chemicals can also leave behind residue that is harmful if ingested.

Instead of using harsh chemicals, it is best to stick to gentle cleaning agents specifically designed for Invisalign aligners. These cleaners are formulated to effectively remove bacteria and plaque without causing damage to the aligners. Additionally, using gentle cleaners will ensure that the aligners remain clear and odor-free throughout the treatment process.

In addition to being harmful to the aligners themselves, harsh chemicals can also be irritating to the mouth and gums. Residue from these cleaners can be left behind on the aligners, leading to discomfort and even potential allergic reactions. It’s important to prioritize the safety and comfort of your mouth when cleaning your Invisalign aligners.

If you have been using harsh chemicals to clean your Invisalign aligners, it’s important to switch to a milder option as soon as possible. Taking the time to research and invest in a gentle, effective cleaner will ensure that your aligners remain in good condition and continue to provide the best possible results for your smile.