Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays: The Do's & Don'ts

Invisalign is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces. The clear aligners can apply just the right amount of pressure on teeth to slowly reposition them until various alignment problems are completely removed.

However, when you start wearing Invisalign, your dentist in Cary will provide you with many maintenance tips on cleaning the trays. Proper Invisalign cleaning will remove any bacteria and food particles that may remain trapped, and effectively protect your teeth from decay or even gum disease!

So if you’re about to get your first Invisalign aligners, check out the do’s and don’ts of cleaning them:

The Do’s of Invisalign Cleaning

1. Take Them Out Each Morning and Clean Them

You’ll need to wear the aligners during the night, and in the morning you may think you can skip cleaning them since it’s not like you had any food or drinks while you slept.

However, bacteria can build up even more during sleeping because the body tends to produce less saliva. So after you brush your teeth, be sure to cleanse the aligners as well!‍

2. Rinse Them Before Placing Them Back in

You don’t have to go through the usual cleaning routines you perform in the morning and before bed. But, every time you do take the aligners out, such as to eat, be sure to give them a quick rinse in some water before placing them back in.

You may also want to cleanse your mouth with water or even brush your teeth to avoid trapping food with your aligners. ‍

3. Soak Them Once a Day

You should soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or other special cleaning substances once a day, for a thorough cleaning. Then, take a soft-bristled toothbrush (not the one you use for your teeth), and give them a good scrub to remove bacteria and reduce the risk of staining.

Invisalign Don’ts

Invisalign cleaning isn’t really all that difficult, but there are some really common cleaning mistakes you’ll want to avoid:‍

1. Don’t Use Hot Water

The aligners are made from plastic, which can become malleable when exposed to heat. If the aligners change their shape, you may not be able to place them back in.

2. Don’t Leave Them Out in the Open

Keep your aligners in their case when you take them out. Exposure to air can lead to even more bacteria build-up.

3. Don’t Use Harsh or Scented Soaps

Use only mild and clear soaps, or those specially designed for Invisalign or denture cleaning. This makes things a lot more comfortable when you place the aligners back in after cleaning. 

Interested in Invisalign? We Can Help!

Are you wondering if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign treatment in Cary? Dr. Sarah Myers can help you find out!

Book a consultation at Myers + Co Family Dentistry online, or call our practice at (919) 851-5166 for more information.