How to Clean Invisalign Aligners Properly?
Why Is It Important to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners sit on your teeth for 20 to 22 hours each day. During this time, bacteria, food particles, and plaque can build up on them. If you don’t clean your aligners properly, they can:
- Turn yellow or cloudy instead of staying clear
- Start to smell bad
- Cause bacteria to grow in your mouth
- Lead to cavities or gum problems
- Make your treatment take longer than planned
Clean aligners help your teeth move properly and keep your mouth healthy. That’s why proper care is so important during your orthodontic treatment.
What Should You Use to Clean Invisalign Aligners?
Many people wonder what products are safe for cleaning their clear aligners. Here are the best options:
Safe Cleaning Products:
- Clear, unscented antibacterial soap
- Invisalign cleaning crystals
- Soft-bristled toothbrush (keep a separate one just for your aligners)
- Cool or lukewarm water
- Retainer cleaning tablets
Products to Avoid:
- Hot water (it can warp your aligners)
- Toothpaste with whitening or colored ingredients
- Colored or scented soaps
- Mouthwash with alcohol
- Harsh cleaning chemicals
How Often Should You Clean Your Aligners?
You should clean your Invisalign aligners at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This matches up with your regular teeth brushing routine. Some people also give their aligners a quick rinse every time they take them out to eat or drink.
Cleaning Schedule | What to Do |
Every Morning | Brush aligners with soft toothbrush and soap, rinse with cool water |
After Every Meal | Rinse aligners and brush your teeth before putting them back in |
Every Night | Deep clean with cleaning crystals or antibacterial soap, brush thoroughly |
Throughout the Day | Rinse aligners when removing them to prevent buildup |
What Are the Step-by-Step Instructions to Clean Invisalign?
Follow these simple steps to keep your aligners clean and clear:
Daily Cleaning Method:
- Remove your aligners gently from your teeth
- Rinse them under cool running water
- Apply a small amount of clear antibacterial soap to a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Gently brush all surfaces of both aligners (inside and outside)
- Pay special attention to the grooves where your teeth fit
- Rinse the aligners thoroughly under cool water
- Check that all soap is removed before putting them back in
Deep Cleaning Method (Once a Day):
- Fill a small cup with cool water
- Add Invisalign cleaning crystals or a retainer cleaning tablet
- Place your aligners in the solution
- Let them soak for about 15 minutes
- Remove and brush gently with your soft toothbrush
- Rinse well with cool water
- Put them back in your mouth or store them in your case
How Can You Remove Stains From Invisalign Aligners?
Sometimes your aligners might get small stains even with regular cleaning. Here’s how to handle them:
- Mix equal parts cool water and white vinegar in a small cup
- Soak your aligners for 15 to 30 minutes
- Brush gently with your soft toothbrush
- Rinse very well before putting them back in
Remember that you switch to new aligners every week during your treatment at River City Orthodontics, so minor stains won’t be there for long.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Cleaning Aligners?
Many people make these common mistakes that can damage their Invisalign aligners:
- Using hot water, which can warp the plastic and ruin the fit
- Brushing with regular toothpaste that can scratch and cloud the aligners
- Leaving aligners out without rinsing them first
- Using colored soaps that can stain your clear aligners
- Forgetting to clean your teeth before putting aligners back in
- Eating or drinking anything except water while wearing them
How Should You Store Your Aligners When Not Wearing Them?
Proper storage is part of keeping your aligners clean. Always put your aligners in their protective case when you take them out to eat. Never wrap them in a napkin or tissue because you might accidentally throw them away. Don’t leave them sitting out where they can collect dust and bacteria.
We provide you with a sturdy case to protect your aligners. Keep your case clean too by washing it with soap and water every few days.
Can You Use Mouthwash With Invisalign Aligners?
You should not soak your aligners in mouthwash, especially if it contains alcohol. The alcohol can damage the plastic material and cause your aligners to become cloudy. However, you can use mouthwash to clean your mouth before putting your aligners back in. Just make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
What Should You Do If Your Aligners Start to Smell?
If your aligners develop an odor, it usually means bacteria are building up. Deep clean them using the soaking method with cleaning crystals or retainer tablets. Make sure you’re also brushing and flossing your teeth properly before putting your aligners back in. If the smell continues, contact our office in Glen Allen, VA, and we can check if everything is okay.
Quick Overview: Keep Your Aligners Clean and Clear
- Clean your aligners at least twice daily with a soft toothbrush and antibacterial soap
- Rinse with cool water only (never hot water)
- Deep clean once a day using cleaning crystals or retainer tablets
- Store aligners in their protective case when not wearing them
- Brush and floss your teeth before putting aligners back in
- Avoid toothpaste, hot water, and colored soaps
- Switch to new aligners every week as directed by your orthodontic team
- Contact us if you notice any problems
Ready for Your Best Smile? Let’s Get Started!
Taking care of your Invisalign aligners is easy once you know the right methods. Clean aligners mean a healthier mouth and better treatment results. At River City Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign and Spark clear aligners as comfortable alternatives to traditional braces. We also provide ceramic braces and metal braces for patients who prefer other options.
Our team in Glen Allen, VA, is ready to help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. We offer complimentary consultations, flexible payment plans, and use iTero digital impressions so you never have to deal with messy molds. Whether you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, we make the process simple and comfortable.