How to Clean My Invisalign the Easy Way

This time, we’ll look at “How to clean my Invisalign” in the Ricci Orthodontics blog. Previously, we looked at foods to avoid with braces and Invisalign.

With Invisalign, you should take out the aligners for meals, drinks, or when you brush your teeth. Since Invisalign comes out, you don’t have to be as mindful of your diet as with braces.

Likewise, cleaning Invisalign is an easier process than with braces. With no braces or wires in the way, you can brush as normal. Each time your brush, it’s a good time to clean your aligners.

By doing so, you can keep your aligners looking clear and discreet. Also, you will be removing any bacteria or yeast that will build up on the surfaces. So, you can help maintain your oral health and avoid bad breath too.

Now, let’s look at the steps to “clean my Invisalign.”  

Also, see more in our Invisalign FAQ.

Keeping Aligners Away from Heat

First, remember that aligners can warp if exposed to heat. The SmartTrack material is comfortably fit to your unique smile. However, the material is meant to last for only a few weeks as you change to the next aligner in the series. So, they are somewhat delicate and may warp in hot water, beverages, or environments. 

Therefore, always take out your aligners when you eat or drink something other than cool water. Then, place them in their specially designed case. Also, be sure to take your aligners out if you participate in sports, swimming, or boating. 

Then, when it’s time to clean, use cool or lukewarm water only – never hot.

Also, avoid leaving your aligner case where it can be exposed to heat, such as in the sunshine or hot car.

How to Clean My Invisalign

Now, here’s what you’ll need to clean Invisalign.

What you’ll need:

• A soft toothbrush reserved for cleaning the aligners
• Clear, liquid soap with no dyes that may stain aligners 

How to clean my Invisalign:

• Gently brush the aligners with lukewarm or cool (never hot water)
• Use a clear, liquid soap (antibacterial is recommended)
• Brush all surfaces gently and rinse until clean
• That’s it!

If clear liquid soap isn’t available, toothpaste will work. However, it could dull the aligner’s surface because toothpaste is somewhat abrasive.

Invisalign’s Cleaning Products

Invisalign’s cleaning systems work great for keeping aligners squeaky clean. 

A daily soak for a few minutes (generally a few minutes at most) will help keep all the surfaces clean. Once you soak, rinse off your aligners and start wearing them again as soon as possible. 

Retainer Cleaning Products 

For those who have a retainer, you can use products designed to clean retainers for Invisalign clear aligners. Be sure the product is not a denture product, which tends to be abrasive.

Ricci Orthodontics will be happy to recommend a cleaning product to you at your appointment. Always, feel free to contact us with any questions.

Following your Invisalign treatment, you will wear a retainer. As a bonus, you’ll already have a supply of cleaning products on hand.

How to Clean My Invisalign On the Go

For cleaning on the go, carry a travel-size soft toothbrush and bottle of clear liquid soap. 

Then, when your aligners need a cleaning, it’s easy to brush them in a sink.

After meals or snacks, it’s always best to rinse and brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If you can’t brush, rinse your teeth and aligners well with water. Then, brush your teeth at the next opportunity.

 

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Your Invisalign Case

When you receive your Invisalign clear aligners, they come with a special rounded case. Your case is the ideal place to place your aligners whenever you take them out to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. 

Your case helps keep your aligners clean and helps you keep track of your aligners. So, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of always putting your case in the same place, such as a purse, backpack, or front pocket. By forming a habit, you won’t lose your aligners, and a pet won’t find them and use them as a chew toy.

Each day, rinse your case in warm, soapy water and pat it dry with a towel.

If you lose your aligners or they are damaged, please get in touch with us right away. Remember, any time spent without your aligners in place can delay treatment.

We hope this information about “how to clean my Invisalign” is helpful.

As always, you can call us anytime at 678-417-9848.

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Tags: caring for Invisalign, clean my Invisalign, cleaning a retainer