How to Properly Clean Invisalign Trays

How to Properly Clean Invisalign Trays

Keeping your Invisalign trays clean is incredibly important for avoiding bacteria buildup. Use this guide to learn how to properly clean Invisalign trays.

One of the major benefits of Invisalign trays is that they are virtually invisible. But if they aren’t clean, everyone will notice your stained trays.

Without proper care, your trays can build up bacteria. This causes unwanted odor and discoloration.

Just like your teeth, having clean Invisalign trays is essential oral hygiene. In this article, we’ll tell you how to keep your Invisalign trays looking as clear as they were when you first got them.

Clean Daily

Did you know that millions of bacteria take over your mouth while you sleep each night? To prevent the bacteria from sitting in your trays, you have to start the day off with clean trays.

The easiest way to have clean Invisalign trays is to include them in your morning routine. Each morning when you brush your teeth, take your trays out and clean them too.

Rinse your trays after every meal to avoid the build-up of bacteria. You can clean them with an anti-bacterial soap to give them extra protection.

Brush your trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and regular toothpaste.

If you use a cleaning solution, make sure that it doesn’t have colors or harsh ingredients. These kinds of products can damage or stain your trays.

Avoid rinsing your retainers with warm or hot water. Since your trays are plastic, hot water can distort the shape.

The best advice is to check with your orthodontist for their cleaning recommendations.

Deep Cleaning-Treatments

To do a deep cleaning treatment, soak your trays in denture cleaner. You can also use specific Invisalign cleaning products.

Other methods for deep cleaning treatments are:

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can fight off bacteria in your trays. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water. Soak your trays for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.

Vinegar

If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide, substitute with vinegar. Vinegar is a natural solution to killing bacteria. Rinse a few times before use to dilute the taste.

After soaking, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to wipe away any remaining plaque. Don’t forget to brush your teeth before you place your aligners back in your mouth. Otherwise, the food particles that may be in your teeth can create more plaque build-up.

Store Them Properly

Leaving your trays exposed to open air can cause discoloration and bacteria buildup. Keep your trays in a case to be sure they keep their clear coat longer.

If you accidentally leave them out, give them a rinse before you put them on again.

Clean Invisalign Trays for a Better Smile

If you don’t clean your aligners properly, they’ll be discolored and infested with bacteria. This could ruin your journey to your perfect smile.

Follow the care tips we outlined, and make sure you take care of your teeth as well. Avoid liquids that can distort or stain your aligners.

With a little time each day, you can make cleaning your aligners a habit.

For more information on Invisalign, or to schedule consultation, please contact us.