8 Tips for Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays: Are You Doing it Right?

Invisalign trays offer the advantage of a nearly invisible orthodontic treatment, but like any dental appliance, they require proper care. Proper cleaning of your Invisalign aligners not only ensures that they remain invisible but also promotes good oral health. After all, trays that aren’t clean can harbor bacteria, leading to potential oral issues.

Here are eight essential tips to ensure you’re cleaning your Invisalign trays correctly:

1. Rinse Upon Removal:
Each time you remove your Invisalign trays, rinse them immediately. This action helps wash away saliva and plaque that may be clinging to the inside surfaces, preventing drying and buildup.

2. Soak Your Aligners:
Use Invisalign cleaning crystals or other denture-cleaning solutions to soak your aligners once a day. This soaking helps to keep them hygienic and clear. Simply follow the instructions provided with the cleaning product.

3. Brush, but Avoid Toothpaste:
While it’s crucial to brush your trays to remove any lingering particles, most toothpastes are abrasive and can scratch the aligner’s surface, leading to visible wear and potential odor. Instead, use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water to gently brush them.

4. Be Mindful of Water Temperature:
Never use hot water to clean or soak your Invisalign trays. Hot water can warp the plastic and ruin their custom fit. Always use cold to lukewarm water to prevent any deformities.

5. Daily Oral Hygiene:
The cleanliness of your trays is closely tied to your overall oral hygiene. Always brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping harmful bacteria or food particles between your teeth and trays.

6. Avoid Colored or Scented Soap:
If you’re using soap to clean your Invisalign trays, opt for clear, unscented soap. Colored or scented soaps might leave residue on the aligners, which can cause them to become tinted or give them an unpleasant taste.

7. Stay Away from Abrasive Brushes:
When brushing your aligners, use a soft-bristled brush. Hard brushes or abrasive tools can cause minute scratches on the aligners, causing them to become cloudy and more visible.

8. Regularly Inspect Your Aligners:
Take a moment every day to inspect your aligners for any calcium or tartar buildup, which appears as a cloudy white film. This buildup is similar to what can be found on teeth if not cleaned regularly. If you notice this type of buildup, it might be helpful to consult your dentist or orthodontist for specific cleaning recommendations.

Taking care of your Invisalign trays is a simple yet crucial task. Proper cleaning not only ensures that your treatment remains inconspicuous but also supports overall oral health. By incorporating these cleaning habits into your daily routine, you can confidently wear your Invisalign aligners, knowing you’re doing it right. And remember, always consult with your orthodontist or dentist if you have any concerns about your aligners’ care or cleanliness.