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How to Clean Invisalign Trays

Invisalign is a method of correcting minor orthodontic problems such as crooked teeth, malocclusions, and other alignment or bite problems with the use of clear aligner trays. These trays need to be worn for 22 hours a day to get the best results. They are only to be removed for eating and teeth cleaning.

In This Article:

  1. The Importance of Keeping Aligners Clean
  2. How Often Should I Clean My Invisalign Trays?
  3. How Do I Clean My Trays?
  4. Fix Minor Orthodontic Problems With Invisalign at Mint Dental Today!

The Importance of Keeping Aligners Clean

You want to take care of your aligners by properly cleaning and storing them regularly to avoid trapping bacteria inside of them, which can lead to cavities. You also want to ensure that your teeth and your aligners have been cleaned if you have just consumed staining foods or drinks such as coffee.

Failing to clean your teeth before putting your Invisalign trays back on can result in staining your trays, which will result in an unattractive and discolored appearance that takes away from their transparent design. Acidic and sugary foods also lead to tooth decay so it’s best to brush your teeth after consuming these, before placing your trays back on. 

How Often Should I Clean My Invisalign Trays?

You should clean your trays every time you remove them, so when you eat and drink anything other than water and when you brush and floss your teeth in the morning and night. This will prevent food particles and bacteria from becoming trapped in your aligners and will prevent your aligners from becoming stained. 

Also, ensure that you properly store your aligners in their case when you aren’t wearing them. Don’t just wrap them in a napkin and leave them on the counter. Your case protects your aligners from bacteria, and damage, and makes it less likely that they will get accidentally thrown away. 

How Do I Clean My Trays?

There are four core steps to cleaning your aligner trays which you should not skimp out on, which are to:

  • Brush your teeth before putting on your aligners
  • Brush your aligner trays gently with a toothbrush and rinse with cold water
  • Soak your trays in a cleaning solution for dentures/retainers
  • Use Invisalign cleaning crystals

Rinse out your aligners each time you take them off. Don’t consume any foods or drinks other than water while wearing your aligners. Gently brushing your aligner trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and some toothpaste has been found to be only slightly less effective than soaking them in a cleaning solution designed for Invisalign trays. For best results, you should use a combination of the two to clean your aligners. 

Fix Minor Orthodontic Problems With Invisalign at Mint Dental Today!

Ready to straighten your smile in comfort and secrecy? Invisalign’s transparent trays which gently and gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment don’t cause pain or discomfort and don’t attract attention with metal wires or brackets. 

Contact us at Mint Dental today to schedule a consultation with our Invisalign specialist Dr. Marwa. Find out if Invisalign is right for you!

Another interesting read for you: What Are Invisalign Refinements and Do You Need Them?