Invisalign aligners are an excellent means of straightening teeth without compromising your natural smile and unobstructed look. They are removable, comfortable, and almost invisible. Nonetheless, they need to be kept clean to avoid stains, odors, and bacteria accumulation. Most people ask themselves how to properly take care of their aligners and if rinsing them is sufficient. If you’re searching for Invisalign near you, knowing how to properly clean your aligners can help keep them fresh and clear throughout your treatment.
Why Cleaning Your Aligners Matters
Invisalign aligners tightly cover your teeth during most of the day. Because of this, they are susceptible to food debris, bacteria, and plaque. Without thorough cleaning, they may get cloudy and smelly or even lead to gum disease and cavities.
Merely rinsing your aligners under water might take away some surface dirt, but it kills no bacteria or dislodges deep stains. Cleaning them thoroughly is required in order to keep them clear and to keep your oral health at its best.
How Usually Should You Clean Your Aligners?
One of the most asked questions by Invisalign users is, how often should you clean your aligners? The frequency is at least twice a day, in the morning and before you go to bed. Cleaning them in the morning would ensure that the bacteria produced at night are removed, while cleaning them before sleeping prevents buildup overnight.
Apart from daily hygiene, it’s also a good practice to rinse your aligners after a meal or snack. This prevents food residue from sticking to them and keeps them clean all day.
Best Ways to Care for Your Aligners
Keeping your aligners clean ensures that they stay clear and fresh. Some of the best methods for caring for your aligners are:
- Gently brushing – Gently brush them using a toothbrush with soft bristles and mild soap. Avoid the use of toothpaste, as it has the potential to scratch the plastic.
- Using Invisalign cleaning crystals – These clean the bacteria and stains off without harming the aligners.
- Avoiding hot water – Hot water has the potential to warp the plastic, thereby changing the way the aligners fit.
- Storing them correctly – Always keep them in the case when not in use to avoid contamination.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Aligners
To maintain your Invisalign aligners clean and fresh, do the following every day:
- Rinse Immediately – Every time you take off your aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water to avoid plaque and saliva accumulation.
- Brush Gently – Brush both the inside and outside of your aligners using a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
- Soak Daily – Soak your aligners in a cleaning solution, like Invisalign cleaning crystals, for 15 minutes. This will remove deep stains and bacteria.
- Rinse Again – Rinse your aligners under lukewarm water after soaking and before replacing them in your mouth.
- Store Properly – Keep your aligners in their case when not in use to prevent them from coming into contact with bacteria and being accidentally damaged.
Cleaning vs Rinsing Invisalign: What’s the Difference?
Most individuals think that rinsing Invisalign underwater will suffice to keep them clean. Cleaning vs rinsing Invisalign aligners are not the same thing, though. Rinsing loosens loose debris but kills no bacteria and does not eliminate plaque. Without cleaning, aligners will have an odor and become cloudy.
Cleaning is brushing and soaking to remove bacteria, avoid discoloration, and maintain your aligners’ freshness. Rinsing is beneficial, but it must be followed by a proper cleaning process.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Aligners
To avoid damage, avoid these pitfalls:
- With toothpaste – Most brands have abrasives that will scratch and discolor aligners.
- Soaking in mouthwash – Some mouthwashes have dyes that stain your aligners.
- Leaving aligners exposed – Always place them in their case to avoid contamination.
- Using scented soap – These have an unpleasant flavor that will remain on your aligners.
Can You Drink with Invisalign?
Consuming anything besides water while having your aligners on can cause stains and bacterial growth. Coffee, tea, soda, and wine can stain your aligners and make them cloudy. Sugar-containing beverages also contribute to the risk of plaque formation, which can cause cavities.
If you consume something other than water, take your aligners out first and rinse your mouth before placing them back in. This keeps them clean and clear during your treatment.
Signs Your Aligners Need Extra Care
Even with routine cleaning, aligners may occasionally become cloudy or sticky in texture. If you experience any of the following, they might require additional attention:
- Bad smell – This is a sign that bacteria are being held in your aligners.
- Cloudy look – This may be a sign of plaque accumulation that requires additional cleaning.
- Sticky feel – If your aligners are sticky, they might require a deeper soak in a cleaning solution.
If these issues persist, ask a trusted orthodontist near you for additional care tips.
Keeping Your Aligners Safe When Not in Use
When you take out your aligners, make sure to always put them into their case. Some people carelessly dispose of them by placing them in a napkin and then throwing them away. In their case, they are preserved from loss, contamination, and bacteria exposure.
Pets and dogs, especially, are always drawn to the smell of aligners. Without their case, they might ingest them. This proper storage maintains their integrity by preventing damage to them.
Keep Your Aligners Fresh with Professional Guidance
Caring for your Invisalign aligners is easy with the proper routine. If you have questions regarding cleaning or taking care of them, an orthodontist in Santa Clarita can offer professional advice. Smile Republic Orthodontics provides one-on-one Invisalign care to ensure optimal results. Call us today and keep your smile on track!
