Invisalign® Clear Aligners - Woodland Hills, CA

How to Clean Invisalign Aligners

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Ensuring You Have a Successful Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. One of the key benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, making it easy to maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment. It’s crucial to commit to wearing aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours each day to ensure the success of your treatment.

You’ll also need to properly care for your Invisalign clear aligners to ensure they stay clean, odor-free, and free of bacterial buildup. By following these tips from our Woodland Hills Invisalign provider, you can help ensure a successful and comfortable treatment experience.

To schedule an Invisalign consultation, contact our Woodland Hills dental office today at 818-491-7294.

Easier to care for than braces, Invisalign clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and invisible.

cosmetic dentistry patient smiling in exam chair

How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners

Rinsing

Before you put your Invisalign aligners back in your mouth, make sure to rinse them off thoroughly. Rinse them under cold water to remove any saliva or food particles that may be on them. You should also rinse your mouth out before putting them back in. This will help remove any bacteria or food particles that may be stuck in your teeth or gums.

Brushing

When it comes to brushing your Invisalign clear aligners, it’s essential to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. You don’t want to use anything too harsh that could scratch or damage them. Gently brush your aligners, just as you would with your teeth. Be sure to rinse them off thoroughly with cold water afterward.

Soak Your Aligners with

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
In addition to rinsing and brushing, you can also use a cleaning solution to help keep your Invisalign aligners clean. Most dentists recommend using a clear, antibacterial soap with lukewarm water. Mix a small amount of soap with water and soak your aligners in the solution for around 15 minutes. Be sure to rinse them off thoroughly afterward to remove any leftover soap residue. Never use bleach or other hard chemicals to clean your aligners as these can damage the plastic and make it more visible.

Using a denture cleaner is an effective alternative to soap and water for cleaning Invisalign aligners, as it helps prevent bad odors and staining without the risks associated with diluted mouthwash solutions.

Dry Aligners Properly

When not in use, for example, during meal times, keep the clear aligners in a case and let them air dry. Avoid using a cloth, as it can leave lint or other particles behind on your aligners.

Aligner Inspection

Before reinserting, inspect your Invisalign clear aligners for any calcium or tartar buildup that can appear as a cloudy white film. If you see this, you may need a specialized product or help from your orthodontist to remove it.

What Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Fix?

Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When using Invisalign, it’s essential to take extra care of your teeth to prevent cavities and other dental problems.

Not properly cleaning your teeth and Invisalign aligners can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Other Maintenance Guidelines

Here are some additional tips and tricks on Invisalign care that can help you get the most out of your treatment:

  • Wear your Invisalign trays for at least 22 hours a day to ensure the best results. Unlike traditional braces, you can eat and drink what you’d like. Just be sure to always remove your clean Invisalign trays before consuming food or drink. The only exception is water.
  • Use a retainer case. When you remove your aligners, store them in a retainer case to prevent loss or damage.
  • Use the right cleaning tools. Never use colored or scented soaps because they can discolor your aligners. You should also avoid toothpaste with whitening agents, as these can cause buildup and cloudiness on the aligners.
  • Schedule regular checkups with Dr. Chaves. Regular visits with our Invisalign provider are essential to monitor your progress and ensure that your treatment is on track.

 

The excitement of receiving new aligner trays is a key part of the journey towards straighter teeth, symbolizing a step closer to achieving your desired smile. So make sure you’re taking great care of your teeth and aligners for a beautiful smile!

dentist pointing at model of teeth

Frequently Asked Questions

While it may be tempting to use mouthwash to clean your trays, it’s strongly recommended that you don’t. Many types of mouthwash contain alcohol, which can cause the plastic to become brittle and crack or break, rendering them useless. Mouthwash can also create small cracks in the aligners, making it easier for bacteria and other harmful substances to build up.

You should clean your aligners regularly, at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed, to prevent staining and maintain their almost invisible appearance. It’s crucial to use gentle antibacterial soap and warm water to remove buildup and bacteria at least once a day to keep the trays clear and in good shape. It’s best to rinse them off whenever you take them out to eat or drink anything besides water. Taking these steps will help remove any food particles or bacteria that may be on the aligners, ensuring they remain clear and hygienic.

Yes, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your aligners. Be sure to use non-abrasive toothpaste and rinse them off thoroughly afterward. It’s also important to be gentle when brushing your aligners, as brushing them too hard can scratch or damage the plastic. Be sure to use a light touch and gentle circular motions to help remove any buildup.

No, it’s not recommended to use hot water to clean your aligners. Hot water can warp the aligners’ plastic, causing them not to fit properly. This can not only make your treatment less effective but can also be uncomfortable to wear. Instead, stick to rinsing with cold water or lukewarm water when using a cleaning solution to help keep your aligners clean.

Contact Our Woodland Hills Dentist for Your Invisalign Treatment Plan

You deserve to have a comfortable, stress-free treatment process, and that starts with proper care for your Invisalign aligners. Don't wait another day to take action. Contact our Woodland Hills dental office at 818-491-7294 to learn more about caring for your Invisalign aligners and taking the first step toward the smile of your dreams.
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