How to Keep Your Invisalign Clean and Fresh

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular orthodontic treatment option for adults and teens. They are practically invisible, which means you can wear them without feeling self-conscious about your appearance. In addition, they are removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush your teeth, and floss as usual. However, because they are not permanently attached to your teeth, it’s important to take extra care to keep them clean.

Here are seven tips on how to clean your Invisalign. These tips can also be applied to caring for retainers and night guards.

1. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water before brushing them. This will help remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck to the aligners.
2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and soap to brush your aligners. Be sure to brush gently so as not to damage the aligners. Do not use toothpaste, as this can scratch the aligners and make them more difficult to clean in the future.
3. Rinse your aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water after brushing them. You don’t want any soap residue left on the aligners, as this could cause irritation or inflammation of the gums.
4. For a refresh, you can soak your aligners in a denture-cleaning solution for 15 minutes. This will help kill any bacteria that may be lurking on the aligners. Be sure to follow the instructions on the denture cleaning solution packaging for the best results.
5. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, even if you’re wearing Invisalign clear aligners. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits even while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. For tips on keeping your teeth clean, see this article.
6. Drink only clear, sugar free liquids while wearing the trays. This will help not only keep the trays clean, but also keep your teeth from getting sugary liquid trapped beneath the tray.
7. Avoid smoking while you’re wearing Invisalign clear aligners. Smoking can discolor the aligners and make them more difficult to clean properly.
8. Don’t forget to clean your retainer case! Bacteria can build up in the case just as easily as on the aligners themselves, so be sure to rinse it out with warm water regularly and allow it to air dry completely before putting your clean aligners back in it for storage.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your Invisalign clear aligners clean and fresh throughout your orthodontic treatment journey!