How to Clean Invisalign Trays – Ultimate Guide
You have your Invisalign aligners, which look great, and no one can tell you are straightening your teeth. Now, you are worried about an Invisalign Cleaner. This is a legitimate concern because failing to properly care for your aligners could make them look dingy or lead to discoloration. Above all you must:
Develop a morning routine for hygiene
Rinse Your Aligners When You Remove Them
Every Day Make Sure Your Aligners Are Soaked
You Shouldn’t Eat or Drink While Wearing Aligners
Store Your Aligners In a Cool Dry Place
In this post, we’ll also show you quick methods for cleaning Invisalign. So, let’s get cracking.
Table of Contents
What Can You Use To Clean Invisalign?
The Water Soak
Your orthodontist knows that many people think cleaning Invisalign devices will be hard. People think this because they have heard that cleaning braces take some work. Do not worry about this so much. Invisalign is easier to care for because the device is removable, unlike traditional braces.
To clean your aligners, remove them and rinse them off. Then, submerge them in clean water for a few hours. The water should help loosen up any particles on the aligners. These particles should be easier to clean off.
Denture Cleaning Solution
Some people stay away from cleaners that are made specifically for these aligners because of the price. These people turn to denture cleaners because they think they are the same thing. The person soaks the aligners in a denture cleaning solution for 15 minutes and uses a toothbrush to remove excess dirt.
The problem with this option is that some have noted that denture cleansers make the aligners look cloudy. This is not always the case, but it is something that has been reported from time to time, so consider this possibility if you are thinking about this option. Cleaning Invisalign is easy.
Retainer Cleanser
As mentioned above, some people avoid buying the cleanser formulated for this orthodontic device, which is understandable, and some choose retainer cleansers. One reason retainer cleansers are a better option than denture cleansers is that they have a balanced pH value, meaning they should not harm the plastic in the long run.
The aligners are cleaned by soaking them in a container of this mix for a few minutes. When enough time passes, you can clean the aligners with a clean toothbrush to remove any grime. Then, rinse the aligners off thoroughly.
Mouthwash Option
You probably have mouthwash at home, especially if you listen to your oral specialist about the importance of oral maintenance. People are also using this advice for their aligners. It is logical to think that your aligners will get clean with the mouthwash you use for your teeth. All you have to do is soak the aligners in the mouthwash. Then, rinse them under cold water for a few minutes. You can finish off the job by cleaning gingerly with your toothbrush.
The only little thing you should consider is switching your mouthwash to a clear mouthwash instead of a colored one. This is important because some people have noticed that the green mouthwash leaves a green hue on the aligners, which no one wants to see.
Recommended Cleaning Kit
Of course, a good orthodontist will likely recommend the cleaning kit that is designed for these aligners. The cleaning kit is kind of expensive and needs to be refilled from time to time. The cleaning crystal packs are about $50 per pack, but they are definitely worth it. They clean your aligners in 15 minutes. All you have to do is dissolve one crystal in a container of water and submerge the dental device. The cleaning system is preferred by many professionals and recommended for those who are always on the go and may not have time for the overnight soak.
Soap Trick
Many people decide to use hand or dish soap to cleaning Invisalign aligners, which is not the best option. Experts do not recommend soap because it might be too harsh for the plastic. If you decide to use a gentle soap, use a toothbrush to brush the soap onto the aligners, and rinse them off afterward.
Be sure to rinse them off a few times to make sure all the soap is removed before placing the device back in your mouth. Since most soaps are abrasive, they could damage your enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental issues.
Hydrogen Peroxide Wash
Those who want to try something even cheaper can simply buy hydrogen peroxide from their local drug store. You want to make a solution of half water and half hydrogen peroxide to soak your aligners in. They will need to soak for 20 minutes before you remove them. Rinse them off, and use your toothbrush to finish the job.
Again, do your best to remove all of the hydrogen peroxides. Run them underwater for a while as you clean them. Make sure no residue is left behind because it can be harsh on your enamel and the aligners, too.
Apple Cider Vinegar Wash
Those who prefer to use something a little more natural can use unfiltered apple cider vinegar to create a mixture of half vinegar and half water. You want to do the same thing you did with the hydrogen peroxide solution, and rinse your aligners for 20 minutes.
Of course, it is important that you rinse the vinegar off before placing the device back in your mouth. Those who do get a hint of the vinegar should relax because it is temporary. You can also go the extra mile, and add a little baking soda to the mixture for added cleaning power. The baking soda helps lift residue that might be stuck on the aligners, making it easier to clean off.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have explored various methods and best practices to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your Invisalign aligners. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure the longevity of your aligners and enjoy a comfortable, discreet orthodontic treatment experience.
Remember to avoid common cleaning mistakes and utilize the recommended cleaning products for optimal results. Your dedication to proper aligner care will contribute to a healthier and more confident smile in no time. Now, we invite you to share your own experiences and tips for cleaning Invisalign aligners in the comments section below. Let’s continue the discussion and help each other achieve the perfect smile!
Phone: 615 269 5903
Dr. Joel Gluck has practiced orthodontics since 1983 when he opened his own office in Nashville. He earned his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis, and his dental degree at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Gluck then completed an orthodontic specialty residency at the University of Michigan, one of the top five orthodontic training residencies in the country. He also wrote an original thesis and received a Master of Science degree.
It makes sense that cleaning the Invisalign is a pretty simple task because it’s removable. My brother is trying to get a new dentist that can care for his family. He needs to find a good dentist that has a lot of great reviews so he knows they are worth working with.