Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners
March 21, 2024

Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners

By cleaninvisalign

Discover the dos and don’ts of keeping your Invisalign aligners clean. From using the right cleaning solutions to gently brushing with a soft toothbrush.

Dos of Cleaning Invisalign Aligners

Proper Cleaning Solutions: When cleaning your Invisalign aligners, it is important to use the proper cleaning solutions recommended by your orthodontist. These solutions are specifically designed to clean the aligners without causing any damage to them. Using the wrong cleaning solution can result in discoloration or damage to the aligners, so always follow the guidelines provided by your orthodontist.

Soaking in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals: One of the recommended cleaning solutions for Invisalign aligners is the Invisalign cleaning crystals. These crystals are designed to effectively clean the aligners without causing any damage. Soaking your aligners in the cleaning crystals for the recommended amount of time will help to remove any plaque or bacteria buildup, keeping your aligners clean and clear.

Brushing Aligners Gently with a Soft Toothbrush: Another important do when it comes to cleaning Invisalign aligners is to brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Using a soft toothbrush will help to remove any debris or buildup without scratching or damaging the aligners. Be sure to brush the aligners both inside and out to ensure thorough cleaning.

Rinsing Aligners with Lukewarm Water: After cleaning or soaking your Invisalign aligners, it is important to rinse them with lukewarm water. Rinsing with lukewarm water will help to remove any residue from the cleaning solution or crystals, ensuring that your aligners are clean and ready to be worn again.

Using Proper Cleaning Solutions

When it comes to maintaining your Invisalign aligners, it’s important to use the proper cleaning solutions recommended by your orthodontist. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the aligners. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for Invisalign aligners, such as the Invisalign Cleaning System or non-alcoholic mouthwash.

Using the right cleaning solutions is essential for keeping your aligners free from bacteria and plaque buildup, which can lead to discoloration and odors. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist or the manufacturer of the cleaning solution for the best results.

In addition to using the proper cleaning solutions, it’s also important to clean your aligners regularly, ideally after every meal. This will help prevent the accumulation of food particles and bacteria, keeping your aligners clean and clear.

By using the right cleaning solutions and following a regular cleaning routine, you can ensure that your Invisalign aligners remain in good condition and continue to provide effective treatment throughout your orthodontic journey.

Soaking in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals

When it comes to keeping your Invisalign aligners clean, one of the most effective methods is soaking them in Invisalign cleaning crystals. This special solution is designed to effectively remove bacteria and plaque from your aligners, leaving them clean and fresh. Soaking the aligners in the cleaning crystals for the recommended amount of time can help to ensure that they remain clear and odor-free.

It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or orthodontist when using Invisalign cleaning crystals. This will help to ensure that you are using the solution properly and not damaging your aligners. Be sure to use the correct ratio of water to cleaning crystals and only soak the aligners for the recommended amount of time. Over-soaking can potentially damage the aligners, so it’s important to follow the guidelines closely.

Additionally, it’s crucial to thoroughly rinse the aligners with lukewarm water after soaking them in the cleaning crystals. This will help to remove any remaining residue from the solution and ensure that your aligners are safe to wear. Once they have been rinsed, be sure to store them in their designated case to keep them protected and clean until they are ready to be worn again.

In conclusion, soaking your Invisalign aligners in cleaning crystals can be a highly effective method for keeping them clean and odor-free. By following the proper guidelines and recommendations, you can ensure that your aligners remain in excellent condition and continue to provide the best results for your smile.

Brushing Aligners Gently with a Soft Toothbrush

When it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of your Invisalign aligners, it’s important to use a soft toothbrush for brushing. Using a soft toothbrush ensures that the aligners are not scratched or damaged during the cleaning process. The bristles of a soft toothbrush are gentle enough to effectively remove any buildup or residue on the aligners without causing any harm to them.

It’s best to use a toothbrush specifically designated for cleaning your Invisalign aligners to avoid any cross-contamination with regular toothbrushes. Make sure to brush the aligners gently, using a circular motion to cover the entire surface area. Avoid using excessive force as this can cause damage to the aligners and compromise their integrity.

Before brushing, it’s important to use a recommended cleaning solution or Invisalign cleaning crystals to soak the aligners. This helps to loosen any stubborn debris and makes it easier to remove during the brushing process. Once the aligners have been soaked and gently brushed, rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water to ensure that all cleaning solution residue is removed.

By following these dos and don’ts of cleaning Invisalign aligners, you can ensure that they remain in optimal condition and continue to effectively straighten your teeth. Remember, gentle brushing using a soft toothbrush is key to maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of your aligners.

Rinsing Aligners with Lukewarm Water

When it comes to cleaning your Invisalign aligners, one important step is rinsing them with lukewarm water. Lukewarm water is the ideal temperature for rinsing as it helps to loosen and remove any debris or residue from the aligners.

After removing your aligners from your mouth, it’s important to give them a thorough rinsing to ensure that all traces of saliva and plaque are removed. Lukewarm water is gentle on the aligners and won’t cause any damage or warping, unlike hot water which can affect the shape and fit of the aligners.

Rinsing the aligners with lukewarm water also helps to keep them clean and fresh, preventing any buildup of bacteria or odors. This simple step is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign aligners.

So, next time you take out your aligners, be sure to give them a good rinsing with lukewarm water before putting them back into your mouth. It’s a small but important step in ensuring that your aligners stay clean and comfortable to wear throughout the day.