How to Clean and Care for Your Invisalign Aligners the Right Way

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is equally as important as wearing them consistently. Wearing trays for up to 22 hours a day, keeping them fresh is essential, and not just for your oral health, but also to ensure they stay invisible and effective.

Other ways to care for such valuable instruments include rinsing them with lukewarm water whenever you remove your aligners, whether to eat, drink anything other than water, or brush your teeth. This helps wash away saliva, bacteria, and any food particles.

Brush Gently, Soak Daily

Once a day, take a few minutes to clean your aligners thoroughly. A soft toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap (not toothpaste, as it can scratch). Gently brush the inside and outside of each tray. It’s also a good idea to soak them daily in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture cleaner to remove deeper buildup and keep them looking clear.

Before popping your aligners back in, make sure you brush and floss your teeth. This step helps keep aligners from trapping food, sugar, and bacteria against your teeth, which could lead to cavities or gum issues. A clean mouth equals clean aligners, which equals a healthy smile.

Avoid Hot Water and Harsh Cleaners

Hot water may damage the aligners, as well as harsh cleaners or mouthwash, by discoloring or warp the plastic and ruining the fit. It would be best to use only lukewarm water and mild soap for the best results.

Keep Them in Their Case

When the aligners are not in use, it is best to store them in the protective case. This way they are kept clean, safe, and less likely to end up discarded into the trash wrapped in a napkin (which happens more than you’d think). Taking care of your Invisalign aligners doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small habits go a long way in keeping your trays fresh and your smile on track.