There’s no question that Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces. Instead of wearing wires and brackets on your teeth, it’s possible to use removable clear aligners that can gently move your teeth into place. If you are using this system to straighten your smile, then it’s essential that you are proactive with the best methods for Invisalign retainers cleaning. Here are a few tips to help:
Invisalign Retainers Cleaning: Daily Routines for Hygiene
Keep in mind that your aligners will need to be cleaned daily. When the aligners are removed from your mouth, it’s best to rinse them under lukewarm water immediately. Rinsing helps to prevent the buildup of plaque and saliva. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush away any particles on the aligners.
While rinsing is helpful for removing surface particles, it isn’t enough to get rid of odors or bacteria. Invisalign retainers cleaning should also include occasional deep cleaning, such as using an approved soaking solution for the aligners.
Best Practices for Invisalign Care
Your Invisalign aligners should be cleaned at least twice a day: every morning and night. Make sure to wash your hands before removing the aligners from your mouth to avoid transferring bacteria to your orthodontic appliances.
When you remove the aligners for meals, they should always be stored properly to avoid damage or loss. For example, don’t make the mistake of wrapping your aligners in napkins, because there is a risk that they will be thrown away accidentally. Instead, place them in a storage case and put them in your pocket or purse.
Invisalign Maintenance Tips
How do you know when your aligners need cleaning? Here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that you are keeping up with the best Invisalign retainers cleaning routine:
- Always rinse the aligners when you remove them for meals
- If you see a visible buildup or a cloudy appearance, then it means the aligners need to be cleaned
- Deep clean the aligners every few days
- If you notice a bad taste or persistent odor, then it’s a sign of bacteria and means that your aligners need to be cleaned thoroughly
Cleaning Solutions for Invisalign
Your aligners are delicate and could be damaged if you are using the wrong cleaning solutions. Also, make sure that the cleaning products that you choose are non-toxic since these aligners are going back in your mouth after they are cleaned. Talk to your dentist for approved cleaners, such as Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Avoid using harsh cleaners that could damage the surface of your aligners. For example, you shouldn’t use abrasive toothpaste or hard-bristled toothbrushes. Never use bleach on your aligners. Consider making DIY cleaning solutions with one-part vinegar and three-parts water. Or, soak the aligners in hydrogen peroxide.
Clear Aligners Hygiene
In addition to regular cleaning habits for your aligners, also consider how your oral hygiene will play a role in the bacterial growth on your aligners. The best solution is to brush your teeth and clean the aligners at the same time. This strategy helps to reduce the risk of complications with your aligners.
You want to be sure that you are always brushing after a meal and before placing the aligners back in your mouth again. Be careful to avoid trapping food particles between your teeth and the aligners, because these particles could increase the likelihood of tooth decay and aligner discoloration.
Oral Care for Orthodontic Appliances
Regardless of the type of orthodontic appliance you are using, the oral care and hygiene recommendations are usually the same. You want to stay consistent with rinsing the appliances regularly and only using orthodontist-approved cleaning solutions. These appliances need to be deep cleaned regularly to avoid bacterial buildup.
Your brushing and flossing habits are always important for protecting your aligners and preventing infections. Make sure to never skip brushing or flossing. These daily habits make a big difference in protecting your oral health overall.
Retainer Cleaning Methods
Some of the most common methods for Invisalign retainers cleaning include:
- Soaking: Place the aligners in a small glass cup, submerged in an approved soaking solution. Leave them soaking for 30 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
- Ultrasonic Cleaners: Consider using an ultrasonic cleaner to remove bacteria and deep-set debris. These devices combine vibrations and cleaning solutions to ensure that you are cleaning the aligners thoroughly.
Common Mistakes When Cleaning Invisalign Retainers
In addition to following the best practices for cleaning Invisalign retainers, there are a few things that you should always avoid:
- Never clean the aligner with toothpaste because the abrasive ingredients can scratch the plastic.
- Don’t place the aligner under hot water since the high temperature can warp the plastic.
- Don’t skip your cleaning routine.
- Never set your aligners down without them being placed in a safe storage container.
FAQs
What can I use to clean my Invisalign retainers?
Use either a vinegar-water solution or Invisalign cleaning crystals to get the best results during your cleaning.
Can I use toothpaste on my aligners?
No, you should never use toothpaste to clean the aligners because the abrasive nature of the toothpaste will scratch the plastic.
How do I prevent my aligners from smelling?
Daily rinsing and cleaning are essential. Also, make sure to soak your aligners regularly for odor prevention.
What should I do if my aligners become discolored?
If your aligners are discolored, soak them in a recommended cleaner. Also, talk to your dentist to see if replacement aligners are necessary. You can prevent discoloration by always removing your aligners when you are eating or drinking anything other than water.
Get Personalized Invisalign Recommendations from Our Experienced Team
What other questions do you have about Invisalign and your aligners? If you need additional help, then our team is always just a phone call away. We invite you to contact Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas at your convenience for more information about your Invisalign treatment.
