How Do I Sanitize Invisalign®?

Most people choose to wear Invisalign® aligners due to the convenience they offer. They are removable, allowing patients to remove them before eating and cleaning. People wear the alignment trays for two weeks before switching to a new one.

Keeping the aligners clean is a vital part of ensuring effectiveness. Failing to keep them clean can encourage the growth of bacteria, and it can cause cavities and bad breath.

Reasons to Clean Invisalign

Proper cleaning and sanitizing of Invisalign are vital for good oral health. Cleaning the aligners will help prevent bad breath. Saliva helps remove odors and food particles from the teeth. Saliva cannot clean the teeth when wearing aligners due to the barrier.

The particles end up on the aligners, and failing to clean them can cause bad breath. Cleaning Invisalign will help prevent staining, bacteria buildup, gum irritation, and cavities.

Keeping the Aligners Clean 

Good dental hygiene for the teeth and aligners will protect against oral problems. Cleaning the Invisalign trays involves daily rinsing, brushing, and soaking. It will help keep them clear, fresh, and germ-free.

Ensure that you remove the aligners to prevent staining when consuming all foods and beverages. Store them in a protective case when they are not in your mouth. It will help keep them safe and clean.

Cleaning the Invisalign Trays

Rinse the aligners with water every time you remove them. Brush the Invisalign twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear liquid soap. Do not use hot water, regular toothpaste, mouthwash, or denture cleaner to clean the aligners.

You can get unique cleaning products formulated for Invisalign aligners. Brush the trays gently to avoid scratching or damaging the plastic. Soak the trays in an approved cleaner, then brush and rinse them carefully.

Sanitizing Invisalign Aligners

The best way to ensure that you keep your Invisalign clean and sanitized is by using the right products. Invisalign Cleaning Crystals and Steraligner® liquid are helpful for deep cleaning and disinfecting the trays. The products have sodium sulfate and sodium bicarbonate that help keep the aligners sanitized.

Place the aligners in the tray with the sterilizing solution and soak them for three minutes. Brush and rinse the solution off using warm water.

The Right Cleaning Accessories 

Invest in soaking products that are formulated for the aligners. The Invisalign cleaning system is available online. If you choose to use other brands, make sure they are safe to use on the Invisalign plastic. Research has shown that using effervescent tablets and brushing the aligners is the most effective way to keep the aligners clean and fresh. Your dentist can recommend the best products for daily use.

Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth, but you must regularly clean the aligners. You should clean and sanitize your Invisalign trays every night as you brush and floss your teeth. It will help remove any bacteria and debris that may accumulate during the day.

It will also help keep the aligners clear or invisible. A regular dental checkup will help ensure that the aligners are working as they should.

To learn how to properly sanitize Invisalign or to schedule a visit, call Align Dental at (617) 340-5300 to reach our office in Boston, Massachusetts.