Invisalign aligners need proper care — just like your teeth! 

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you will receive several aligners every week or two to gradually pull your teeth into alignment. Although you use each tray for only short periods, you still must properly care for the aligners. Invisalign aligners are a significant dollar investment, and without regular cleaning, you could damage the aligners — and your oral health.

Taking care of your Invisalign aligners requires some simple techniques you can easily incorporate into your daily dental hygiene routine. Here’s a guide on how to clean your Invisalign:

How to clean Invisalign

Maintaining the cleanliness of your Invisalign will extend the effectiveness of each tray. Without regular cleaning, the trays will harbor germs and bacteria that could cause bad breath and additional oral health issues. Furthermore, if you don’t keep the aligner clean, your aligner could turn yellow, which makes them noticeable and defeats the purpose of having clear aligners in the first place!

To keep your plastic aligners sparkling clean, follow these do’s and don’ts:

Do Clean Every Night. When you take your aligner out at night to brush and floss your teeth, you should also take that time to clean your aligner. Cleaning thoroughly twice a day is even better. When done, store the trays in an airtight container to prevent bacteria contamination.

Do Use Special Cleansers. You can purchase cleaners specially made for Invisalign. Other options include soaking the aligner in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water, baking soda and water, or vinegar and water. The last option is a great way to remove any discolorations.

Don’t Use Denture Cleaners. Denture cleaners are not recommended for Invisalign. Avoid using mouthwash, especially those containing alcohol, too. Such products are too harsh for Invisalign.

Don’t Use Hot Water. Hot water can warp the plastic. Instead, use warm or lukewarm water when cleaning or rinsing the aligners.

Do Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush. Soft bristles are less abrasive on the aligner. 

Do Take Out Your Trays Before Eating. Never eat with your trays in place. Before re-inserting, you should brush or rinse or teeth to prevent bacterial buildup under the aligners. A quick rinse of the aligner after you eat and before you put them back is okay, yet you still need to thoroughly clean at night. You can drink water with the trays in, but colored beverages such as coffee or tea can stain the aligner.

Invisalign is an effective tool to straighten teeth. To get the most benefit out of your aligners, clean and take care of them daily.

Time for a great smile!

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Mission Valley, CA location today! Our highly trained dentists can discuss the best practices of keeping your Invisalign clean and effective. Don’t live near our Mission Valley, CA office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Mission Valley, CA
8989 Rio San Diego Dr
Suite 170
San Diego, CA 92108