Invisalign aligners provide a discreet and comfortable way to straighten your teeth, but keeping them clean is crucial for effective treatment and good oral hygiene. 

While they're more convenient than metal braces, they still need proper care. 

In this guide, we’ll explain how to clean your Invisalign aligners, with tips and best practices to keep them fresh and extend their lifespan.

How do you clean Invisalign?

To clean your Invisalign trays, use lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can damage the aligners, and clean them daily for optimal hygiene.

Key Takeaways

• Regular cleaning of Invisalign aligners prevents build-up of bacteria and plaque, keeping them fresh and hygienic.
• Cleaning should be done using gentle methods and materials to avoid damage to the aligners.
• Consistent maintenance ensures the effectiveness of the treatment and helps prevent bad odour.

Why is Cleaning Your Invisalign Important?

Cleaning your Invisalign trays aligners is more than just about keeping them looking good. 

Proper care ensures that they remain free from bacteria, stains, and odours, while also contributing to the success of your orthodontic treatment.

Preventing Bacteria and Plaque Build-Up

Just like your teeth, your Invisalign aligners can accumulate bacteria and plaque. 

If not cleaned regularly, these can cause unpleasant odours, staining, or even oral health issues like gum disease and cavities. 

Cleaning your aligners helps prevent these problems and promotes better oral hygiene.

Avoiding Stains

Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic, and while they are designed to be discreet, they can become stained over time if not cleaned properly. 

Drinking coloured beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine while wearing your aligners can lead to staining. 

Regular cleaning helps maintain their transparency and keeps them looking fresh.

Improving Comfort

A build-up of bacteria or food particles on your aligners can lead to discomfort and even cause mouth irritation. 

Keeping your aligners clean helps to ensure that they remain comfortable in your mouth and that the invisalign treatment process is as smooth as possible.

How Often Should You Clean Your Invisalign Aligners?

Cleaning your Invisalign aligners is essential for both hygiene and appearance, but how often should you clean them? 

It’s recommended to clean your aligners at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. 

However, if you eat or drink something that could stain your aligners, it’s a good idea to clean them immediately after.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Morning: After you remove your aligners in the morning, rinse them under lukewarm water. This will help remove any saliva or build-up from the night.

Night: Before putting your aligners back in at night, clean them thoroughly using the appropriate method to remove plaque and bacteria.

After Eating or Drinking

After meals or drinks, it’s crucial to clean your aligners to avoid food particles and staining. 

You can either rinse them or gently clean them using a toothbrush, but it’s best not to wear them until they’ve been properly cleaned.

Best Ways to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners

There are a few different methods for cleaning your Invisalign aligners, and each comes with its own set of benefits. 

The key is to choose a method that is effective yet gentle to ensure the longevity of your aligners.

Rinsing with Warm Water

One of the simplest and quickest ways to clean your aligners is by rinsing them with warm water. 

This removes any saliva, food particles, or bacteria that may have accumulated. Be sure to use lukewarm water—not hot—because hot water can distort the plastic and damage the aligners.

How to do it: Simply remove your aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water for 10 to 15 seconds, and gently shake off any excess water.

Using a Soft Toothbrush

Using a soft toothbrush to clean your invisalign aligners is a good practice, especially after you brush your teeth, to keep both your aligners and your smile fresh. 

Unlike regular toothbrushes, which can be too abrasive, a soft-bristled brush allows you to clean your aligners without scratching or damaging them.

How to do it: After rinsing your aligners, gently scrub them with a soft toothbrush to remove any plaque or build-up. Be sure to avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface of the aligners.

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals

Invisalign offers a cleaning system that includes specially designed cleaning crystals. 

These invisalign crystals dissolve in water and are designed to remove any plaque, stains, or bacteria from your aligners, leaving them sparkling clean. 

The cleaning crystals are safe and gentle on the aligners.

How to do it: Fill a container with lukewarm water and dissolve the cleaning crystals. Place your aligners in the solution for the recommended time, then rinse them with water before placing them back in your mouth.

Soaking in a Cleaning Solution

You can also soak your Invisalign aligners in a non-abrasive cleaning solution or a mild dish soap solution. 

Ensure the solution is safe for clear aligners and won't cause staining or damage.

How to do it: Prepare a cleaning solution with warm water and a small amount of non-abrasive soap. Soak your aligners for about 15-20 minutes. 

Rinse them thoroughly with water afterward before putting them back in.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

It’s essential to avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, bleach, or alcohol-based cleaners when cleaning your Invisalign aligners. 

These can weaken the plastic and cause discoloration. Stick to gentle cleaning methods to preserve the clarity and integrity of your aligners.

Maintaining Your Invisalign Aligners for Long-Term Use

In addition to daily cleaning, it's essential to maintain your Invisalign aligners to ensure they last throughout your treatment. Here are some tips for maintaining their longevity:

Store Them Properly

When you’re not wearing your Invisalign aligners, always store them in their protective case. This will prevent them from getting lost, damaged, or exposed to bacteria.

Avoid Eating with Aligners In

It’s essential to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food particles and liquids can get trapped in the aligners, leading to stains and bacteria build-up.

Keep Them Away from Heat

Keep your aligners away from heat sources, as heat can warp or discolour the plastic. Avoid leaving them in hot water, the sun, or in the car on a hot day.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I clean my Invisalign aligners with regular toothpaste?

No, you should avoid using toothpaste on your Invisalign aligners, as it can cause scratches and damage the plastic. Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or an Invisalign-specific cleaner.

2. How often should I clean my Invisalign aligners?

You should clean your Invisalign aligners at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Clean them after eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and build-up.

3. Can I use mouthwash to clean my aligners?

Mouthwash can be used occasionally to help freshen your aligners, but it is not a complete cleaning solution. For better results, rinse them with water and clean with a soft toothbrush or an Invisalign cleaner.

Conclusion

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is essential for both oral hygiene and the effectiveness of your treatment. 

By following the right cleaning techniques, you can ensure that your aligners remain free of bacteria, plaque, and stains while helping you maintain a healthy smile throughout your treatment. 

Regular cleaning, along with proper maintenance and care, will ensure that your Invisalign aligners stay in great condition and deliver the results you’re looking for.