Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®

In our Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®, we’ll help you get into a good routine of caring for your clear tray aligners. Part of the success of Invisalign® is attributed to the dedication of patients like you. Your commitment to this treatment method helps us to help you discover your perfect smile.

Why Cleaning your Tray Aligners is Important

Although your morning and evening routine won’t change much with Invisalign®, there are some new habits you should develop.

One habit you’ll need is to rinse your aligners when you remove them for meals and drinking. Gently brushing your aligners under running water with a soft bristle toothbrush is optimal. Always store your alignment trays in the case when they are not in your mouth.

Brush your teeth before reinserting your trays after a meal.

Possibly the most important new habit you’ll need is soaking your trays daily. There are many methods that can be used to give your trays a deep clean.

Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®

Determining the time you soak your trays is the first step for all the below soaking methods. Many orthodontists recommend soaking your trays during your daily shower. This normally allows enough time for adequate soaking and causes less interruption in your normal routine.

Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

The Invisalign® Cleaning System is available from Invisalign, some dental and orthodontic offices, retail stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. The crystals are dissolved in warm water, then trays can be soaked for 10 to 20 minutes.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container or small bowl with enough lukewarm water to cover trays
3. Mix Crystals with water
4. Insert trays and soak for 10 to 20 minutes

Denture/Retainer Tablets

Denture or retainer tablets can be used, although you should avoid tablets with added coloring as they can tint your trays.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a small bowl or container with enough water to cover trays
3. Dissolve a tablet in the water (no need to wait, the foaming action helps clean)
4. Insert trays and soak for 10 to 20 minutes

Baking Soda and Water

A quick and easy alternative to prepackaged cleansers is baking soda, which most people already have in their homes. This method does have a longer recommended soaking time but is highly effective.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container or small bowl with enough warm water to cover trays
3. Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in the water
4. Insert trays and soak for 20 to 30 minutes

Vinegar and Water

Vinegar is also a very effective natural cleanser. One caution is that you need to rinse the trays really well after using this method or you will be tasting vinegar all day.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container with a 50/50 mix of warm water and distilled white vinegar
3. Insert trays and soak for 20 to 30 minutes

Final Notes

Remember to use only lukewarm water when soaking or rinsing your trays. Hot water can cause damage to the trays.

Always use a soft-bristled brush on your aligners. Hard bristles may cause scratches and make the trays less transparent. Following your soak, you should rinse the trays well and brush them gently to remove cleanser residue.

If you don’t have access to any of the above methods, cleaning your trays with a drop of disinfectant soap or dish soap will work in a pinch. Simply add a drop to your toothbrush and gently brush the trays, being sure to rinse them thoroughly.

Call Spain Orthodontics If You Still Have Questions

We hope that you found our Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign® helpful. Daily maintenance of your alignment trays and good oral hygiene practices will ensure success as you discover your perfect smile.

The entire staff at Spain Orthodontics is here to help. If you have any questions about cleaning or wearing your Invisalign® tray aligners, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You may use our Contact Form, email us at braceyourself@es.spainortho.com, or call our office at (206) 693-3123.