Invisalign orthodontic aligners can be removed, allowing patients to brush and floss just like they always do. However, it's important to clean your aligners, too. Here, our BC dentists explain how.
To keep your Invisalign aligners clean and free of bacteria:
Rinse your aligners off thoroughly each time you take them out. This helps prevent bacteria from developing instead of leaving dried saliva and plaque on your aligners! Be sure to always use cool or, at warmest, room temperature water when doing this, because hot water may damage your aligners.
Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in so that the food particles and bacteria don't get trapped in the space between your aligners and your teeth. It’s a recipe for bad breath and decay.
Brush your aligners at the same time you you brush your teeth. Using toothpaste and a toothbrush, brush the aligners all over, thoroughly but gently. Then rinse with cool water.
Soak your Invisalign aligners every week in the official Invisalign cleaning crystals, or in Denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, or even plain white vinegar to remove any buildup and to keep your trays sanitized.
Our BC dentists always recommend developing a habit of thorough aligner cleaning as soon as possible. Getting into these habits is essential for your oral health during your treatment, and by extension, its ultimate success.
By maintaining these habits, you’ll be able keep your aligners clean and healthy for you to have in your mouth, and eliminate the risk of their tasting or smelling bad!