How to Clean Invisalign Trays

Did you know that roughly 4 million Americans wear braces?

If you find braces uncomfortable or unattractive, you may have chosen to wear Invisalign trays instead of other options.

People love Invisalign trays because they keep your smile looking great while also aligning your teeth. But, you’ve got to look after them to enjoy the benefits.

You need to be prepared to regularly clean your braces to avoid the build-up of plaque which can harbor bacteria. This can cause dental problems, including odors and discoloration.

Read below for our simple guide on how to clean clear aligners. Let’s get started!

1. Clean Every Morning and Night

You should be wearing your aligners while you’re sleeping and throughout most of the day. However, when you wake up, there may have been a build-up of bacteria during the night.

Remember, to remove and clean your aligners every time you get up in the morning. You should also do the same before you go to bed at night.

This should be easy to remember and integrate into your routine. When you go to brush your teeth, also give your aligners a clean.

2. Remove and Rinse with Soap

You should be regularly removing and rinsing your trays to prevent plaque and dry saliva developing on them.

Don’t use any scented soaps. Instead, apply unscented anti-bacterial soaps. You can also gently brush with a toothbrush to remove any remaining plaque.

3. Soaking aligners is not required

Soaking your aligners is not required but can occur only if the soaking solution is non-alcohol based or specified for clear aligners.

Remember to rinse them with clean water before putting them back in your mouth. Otherwise, you could have a nasty taste in your mouth for a while.

4. Brush and Floss After Eating

Whenever you remove your clear aligners to eat or drink, you should brush and floss your teeth after. Remember, the trays aren’t designed for chewing.

This can prevent food particles and bacteria from entering the trays.

If brushing and flossing is not possible following a meal, please rinse with water prior to replacement of your aligners.

5. Store Away When Not Wearing Them

You need to keep your aligners clean at all times. That means you shouldn’t leave them out in the open air for more than a second.

You’ll be provided with a case, with which you should always store them when you’re not wearing them. If you forget to put them away, make sure you rinse and soak them before you put them back in your mouth.