Since debuting their clear aligners more than two decades ago, Invisalign has helped more than 12 million patients straighten their teeth without the metal. What many patients forget, however, is that the trays can quickly discolor if you don’t care for them properly. Luckily, keeping them in pristine condition is easy. Just follow the below dos and don’ts for caring for Invisalign aligners!
DO Rinse Your Aligners Before You Put Them Back In
A good habit to implement is to always rinse your aligners before you put them back in your mouth. This is one of the best ways to remove food particles and other debris that has the ability to discolor your aligners. Simply place your trays under some clean, running water for a few seconds after brushing your teeth and before putting them back in your mouth.
DON’T Use Hot Water
It’s important when you’re rinsing your aligners to never use hot water. This can warp your trays, rendering them virtually useless. That’s why it’s important to always check the temperature first. Cool or lukewarm water will remove debris without changing the shape of your trays.
DO Clean Them with A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
While water will help remove some food particles, your toothbrush will give your trays a deeper clean. Gently use a soft-bristled toothbrush over each surface to help prevent stains and discoloration. Since you may have to do this on-the-go, like while you’re at the office or at a restaurant with friends, it’s helpful to have a travel-sized toothbrush with you at all times.
DON’T Use Toothpaste
In short, toothpaste is quite abrasive. While that’s good at ensuring your teeth don’t stain, it’s too harsh for your aligners. The grittiness can leave behind microscopic scratches, which can cause your trays to look dull and discolored over time. Your toothbrush and clean water should do the trick!
DO Use the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
If your trays begin to look yellow or they simply need a deeper clean, then use your Invisalign cleaning crystals. Place a packet in a cup of water before gently adding your aligners to the mix. Shake the cup to dissolve the cleaning crystals and let your trays soak for 15 minutes or so. It’s as simple as that!
DON’T Use Harsh Cleaners
Bleach and other harsh cleaners should never be used. Not only are they incredibly abrasive, but they also contain toxins that are not safe to ingest. So, don’t use any household products, including mouthwash, to clean your aligners.
Naturally, you want to keep your aligners clean and clear. Otherwise, your teeth will look dull and discolored when you wear them! The good news is that implementing the above dos and don’ts will help prevent that from happening.
About the Practice
From your first appointment to your last visit, our team at Simply Orthodontics wants to make your orthodontic treatment positive, smooth, and enjoyable. In addition to offering top-tier care, we focus on patient education to ensure your transition to life with braces is seamless. Plus, Dr. Ben Smith and Dr. Sam Alkhoury are here to answer any questions that come up along the way! If you have a question about how to keep your aligners stain-free or you want to learn more about Invisalign, then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (508) 839-9350.