Why Cleaning Your Invisalign Matters
When you wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, bacteria and plaque can build up on them. If you don’t clean them properly, your aligners might become cloudy, smelly, or even yellow. Nobody wants that! Clean aligners help protect your teeth from cavities and keep your breath fresh. Plus, when your aligners are clean, they stay invisible, which is one of the main reasons people choose Invisalign over traditional metal braces or ceramic braces at our Gurnee office.
How to Clean Invisalign Aligners Properly: Daily Routine
Starting your day with clean aligners makes a big difference. Every morning when you wake up, take out your aligners and rinse them with cool water. Never use hot water because it can warp the plastic and ruin the fit of your aligners. After rinsing, use a soft toothbrush to gently brush your aligners. You can use clear, unscented antibacterial soap or special Invisalign cleaning crystals. Don’t use toothpaste on your aligners because it can scratch them and make them look cloudy.
After breakfast, lunch, and dinner, always rinse your aligners before putting them back in your mouth. This simple step removes food particles and prevents bacteria from growing. At night, repeat your morning cleaning routine before bed. Store your aligners in their case whenever you’re not wearing them. This protects them from damage and keeps them clean.
Deep Cleaning Methods for Your Aligners
Once or twice a week, give your aligners a deeper clean to keep them in great shape. You can soak them in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for about 15 to 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly with cool water to remove the vinegar taste. Another option is using denture cleaning tablets. Drop one tablet in a glass of warm water, add your aligners, and let them soak for about 15 minutes. These tablets are made to clean dental appliances safely.
Some patients prefer using Invisalign cleaning crystals, which are specially made for clear aligners. Mix the crystals with water according to the package directions and soak your aligners for about 15 minutes. Whatever method you choose, always rinse your aligners well with cool water before putting them back in your mouth.
What to Avoid When Cleaning
Certain things can damage your Invisalign aligners, so it’s important to know what to avoid. Never use mouthwash to clean or soak your aligners. Most mouthwashes have colored dyes that can stain your clear aligners. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the plastic and irritate your mouth. Don’t put your aligners in the dishwasher or use boiling water to clean them. The high heat will warp them, and you’ll need replacements.
Colored or scented soaps should also be avoided. They can leave a bad taste in your mouth and might stain your aligners. If you’re unsure about a cleaning product, ask Dr. Honey or her team during your next visit to our Washington Street office in Gurnee.
Tips for Keeping Aligners Fresh Between Cleanings
Good habits throughout the day help keep your aligners clean longer. Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Food particles trapped between your teeth and aligners can cause bad breath and tooth decay. Drink only water while wearing your aligners. Coffee, tea, soda, and juice can stain them and increase cavity risk.
When eating, always remove your aligners and store them in their case. Never wrap them in a napkin or tissue because you might accidentally throw them away. Keep a travel toothbrush with you so you can brush after meals when you’re away from home.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Whether you’re considering Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, traditional braces, or ceramic braces, proper care is essential for successful treatment. At Honey Orthodontics, we provide personalized orthodontic care for patients throughout Gurnee, IL.
Ready to start your smile journey? Contact us to schedule your free orthodontic consultation.