If you have just started your journey with Invisalign, then you already know that it is very important to maintain your aligners to prevent gum disease and keep them lasting longer. Since  Invisalign aligners fit tightly against the teeth, bacteria, food particles, or plaque can cause bad breath, discoloration, or even cavities if they are not removed from the aligners. So, it is crucial to know how to clean Invisalign effectively.

Cleaning your aligners is not a complicated process, but it does require consistency. In this blog, we will explain how to look after your Invisalign trays, what mistakes not to make, and some professional tips on how to make them always look new.

The Importance of Staying Healthy with Your Invisalign

Traditional braces are not removable;  Invisalign aligners are, making them easier to clean. But because of that, they can easily harbour bacteria if they are not cleaned. Here’s why you should prioritize cleaning your aligners:

• Prevents plaque accumulation and tooth decay
• Reduces bad odour caused by bacteria
• Maintains the clarity of your aligners and ensures they are free from any colour changes.
• Increases the durability of your  aligners
• Ensures that your treatment proceeds without any interruptions

If you are not sure how to look after the aligners then you can go to find Invisalign in Langley who will be able to help you with this and any other oral health issues you may have during your Invisalign treatment.

A Step-by-Step Ways to Clean Invisalign

You don’t need a long time to clean your Invisalign trays but you do need to be consistent. Here are the steps  you should follow to make sure that your aligners last as long as they should:

1. Rinse Your Aligners Often

• • Every time you take off your aligners, wash them with warm water. This prevents saliva and plaque from drying on the trays which can cause odour and bacteria growth. 

2. Brush Gently (But Do Not Use Toothpaste!)  

• • Using a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap, brush your aligners gently. Stay away from toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and leave scratches that make the aligners cloudy looking. 

3. Soak in an Invisalign Cleaning Solution   

• • To deep clean your trays,  soak them in an Invisalign cleaning solution or a mixture of white vinegar and water for  15-20 minutes. Use this to remove stains and bacteria effectively.

4. Stay Away From Hot Water

• • It is recommended that one should not use hot water to clean the aligners as this causes the plastic to warp such that it no longer fits properly.   

5. When Not in Use, Store Properly 

• • It is always recommended that you keep your aligners in their respective cases whenever you are not wearing them. This is because; they are prone to being exposed to bacteria and may also get damaged.

How to Sterilize Invisalign Aligners

Sterilizing your aligners is a great option if you want to take an extra step in maintaining hygiene.  Here are a few major methods:  

• Hydrogen Peroxide Soak: Your aligners should be soaked in a solution of 30-30 hydrogen peroxide and water for about 30 minutes.  
• Denture Cleaning Tablets: You can also try soaking your trays for  15-20 minutes in water into which you have placed a tablet.  
• UV Sanitizer: A  few people prefer the use of UV sanitizing cases that are made for dental appliances.  

In any of the methods outlined above, it is very important to rinse your aligners before wearing them again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some common mistakes that should not be done while cleaning Invisalign are:

• Missing the daily cleaning: Invisalign trays are to be cleaned two times daily.
• Toothpaste or coloured soaps should not be used: The aligners can be stained or even damaged by these.
• While wearing aligners one should not drink coffee or tea: Stains and odour can easily build up in this case.
• Using mouthwash to clean: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can destroy the aligner’s plastic.
• Not cleaning your teeth and putting the trays back: This can lead to tooth decay and bad breath as there will be food particles stuck between the teeth.

Keeping Your Invisalign Clean for a Healthier Smile

You must follow the following steps for the proper cleaning of your Invisalign trays so that your oral health is not at risk as well as your treatment. Thus, you will be able to make sure that your aligners are clean, clear and free of bacteria.

If you are in search of information regarding Invisalign in the Langley area, we are here to assist you. Our Dentists near you at Cornerstone Dental Centre are Invisalign providers and can guide you through the entire process to help you get the best outcome. Schedule an appointment now and allow us to assist you in obtaining the smile of your dreams!