This time, we’re looking at “how to clean my Invisalign” in the Palo Alto Orthodontics blog.
It’s easy to clean Invisalign aligners since they come out much like a retainer. When you eat, drink, or need to brush, simply take out the aligners and brush your teeth as you normally would.
Then, you may brush your aligners similar to how you treat a retainer. Daily, a soaking in safe cleaning products made for aligners or retainers is recommended. However, abrasive cleaners made for dentures aren’t recommended.Â
Since each set of aligners is made for temporary use, they are not intended for long-term use. As such, SmartTrack material is somewhat delicate and requires gentle cleaning.
Keep Your Aligners Looking Invisible
Once you know “how to clean my Invisalign,” you can make your treatment more comfortable, discreet, and efficient. Along with wearing your Invisalign as much as possible, cleaning helps you make progress. Then, you’ll soon be able to show off your dream smile!
As you might expect, aligners develop a film on them with daily use. Unfortunately, the film can be a perfect home for bacteria and even yeast. Fortunately, gentle cleaning removes the film, as it does on your teeth.Â
Clean Invisalign aligners will remain discreet and nearly invisible. So, your efforts help you feel more confident. Plus, you can avoid bad breath associated with bacteria.
Avoid Hot Water, Drinks, and Environments
Both retainers and Invisalign may be susceptible to warping if they get hot. So, never drink a hot beverage with your aligners or retainer in your mouth. Similarly, please don’t wash your Invisalign in hot water. Additionally, avoid leaving your aligners in a hot car.
When it comes to “how to clean my Invisalign,” lukewarm or cool tap water is the way to go.
Your Invisalign Case
Invisalign comes with a cute, streamlined case that both protects the aligners and helps keep them clean. Once a day, rinse the case with warm, soapy water and pat it dry with a towel.
Whenever your aligners come out, please get in the habit of putting them in the case. Wherever possible, rinse them off first. Then, put your case in the same place every time, such as in a backpack or purse. By getting in this habit, you’ll always know where to find your aligners.
Otherwise, it’s easy to lose your aligners or retainers. For example, many people leave their aligners on a napkin and end up in the trash. Or, the family dog decides your aligners are a chew toy.Â
Note: If you lose your aligners, contact Palo Alto Orthodontics right away for a replacement.Â
See more tips about Invisalign here in our FAQ.
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How to Clean My Invisalign
Now, for the easy steps to clean your Invisalign. As you can see, it’s simple and easy.Â
What you’ll need:
- A soft toothbrush
- Clear, liquid soap
How to clean my Invisalign:
- Use the soft toothbrush (reserved for cleaning)
- Gently brush the aligners with lukewarm or cool (never hot water)
- Where possible, use a clear, liquid soap
- Brush all surfaces gently and rinse until clean
- That’s it!
Using a soft toothbrush and clear (no dyes) liquid soap, gently clean your aligners. In a pinch, you may use toothpaste, but it tends to be abrasive and may dull the aligner’s surface over time.
Invisalign Cleaning Products
Invisalign’s cleaning system is great for keeping the aligners clean. Once a day, you may soak the aligners according to the directions. Generally, you only need a few minutes to soak aligners before taking them out to rinse them. Then, start wearing them again until your next meal or snack.
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Clean My Invisalign Using Retainer ProductsÂ
Products used to soak retainers are gentle and not to be confused with abrasive denture products. Thus, they work very nicely for Invisalign too.
Similarly, they only require about five to ten minutes of soaking to be effective.
What to Do While Away from Home
While you are away from home, on the go, and working, rinse and brush your aligners wherever possible. While away, carry a soft travel toothbrush and travel-size container of clear, liquid soap if possible.
Whenever you have a meal or snack, put your aligners in the case and carry them along. If a sink is accessible, rinse your aligners, particularly if they don’t feel entirely clean or contact food or drinks.
Likewise, be sure to take your aligners out if you participate in sports, swimming, or boating. Just remember to place your case where you can overlook it.
Notably, one of the best advantages of Invisalign is taking them out. So, you can enjoy your favorite foods throughout treatment. However, one must be mindful of where you place them and “how to clean my Invisalign.”
Palo Alto Orthodontics are top Invisalign providers creating award-winning smiles for our Palo Alto community.
For any questions, give us a call at 650-327-2310.Â
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