To clean Invisalign aligner trays, follow this process:
With more than 19 million people using Invisalign as an alternative to braces, around 96% of them report that they are satisfied with the results! Getting positive results from this amazing product means caring for your Invisalign aligner trays correctly.
The dentists at JC Dental Como are here to do exactly that. From what to do when removing your aligner trays, to cleaning them from day to day, all the advice you need is right here. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Products that are safe for cleaning Invisalign trays include:
The reason these products are safe for cleaning your Invisalign aligner trays, is because they are minimally abrasive. A mistake many people make when cleaning their aligner trays is that they use products that are too abrasive. This can damage your aligner trays, so let’s see what they are.
You should clean your Invisalign trays twice every day. The aligner trays should also be soaking when they are not in use (during meals, brushing teeth, etc.). Cleaning your aligner trays regularly will increase their effectiveness during treatment, and prevent bacteria build-up when they are in your mouth.
Invisalign Cleaning Crystals is a product by Invisalign specifically developed to effectively clean and sanitise your aligner trays. This product is non-abrasive, and kills bacteria while the aligners are soaking in it. A pack of 50 packets sells for around AUD $75 when purchased directly from Invisalign.
At JC Dental Como, we will tell you that this is the ideal aligner cleaner to use. However, you can also use some of the household items mentioned above if you run out of Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, or haven’t budgeted for them as part of your treatment.
You’ll be provided with new aligners every 7 to 14 days during the treatment. This means that for mild cases, you can expect to use between 10 and 25 aligners. For more serious cases of crooked teeth, up to 40 aligners or more are necessary during treatment, and each one should be obtained every 1 to 2 weeks.
To remove cloudiness from your Invisalign trays, follow these steps:
Now simply rinse them with warm water, dry them off, and the cloudiness should be gone. If the cloudiness is still there, take them with you on your next replacement visit to the dentist. Your dentist should be able to tell you why they are becoming cloudy.
Products you should avoid when cleaning your Invisalign trays include:
Using these products may warp, scratch, or leave an unpleasant taste in your aligner trays.
| Cleaning Process | Frequency | Importance | How it Helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rinse After Removal | • Every time you remove trays | • Prevents plaque buildup, bacteria, and odours from accumulating | • Rinsing immediately removes saliva and food particles, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and keeping your trays fresh. |
| Brush with Mild Soap | • Once a day or after meals | • Helps remove buildup and prevents plaque and stains from forming | • Brushing with mild soap ensures your trays are thoroughly cleaned without causing scratches or damaging the material. |
| Soak in Cleaning Solution | • Once a day or as needed | • Helps remove deep-set stains, bacteria, and odours | • Soaking in a special cleaning solution like Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaner kills germs and keeps your aligners sparkling. |
| Deep Clean with Hydrogen Peroxide | • Once a week | • Disinfects and sanitises trays while removing stubborn buildup | • Soaking in hydrogen peroxide helps break down bacteria, stains, and odours, keeping trays hygienic and free from plaque buildup. |
| Use Mouthwash (Alcohol-Free) | • Once a day or as needed | • Adds extra sanitisation without harsh chemicals or residue | • Alcohol-free mouthwash disinfects trays without damaging the material, helping to remove bacteria and prevent odour. |
| Dry Properly | • After each cleaning | • Prevents bacteria growth and odours from lingering | • Air drying your trays ensures they don't stay moist, which could lead to bacterial growth or unpleasant smells. |
| Store in a Case | • Always when not in use | • Protects trays from dirt, damage, and contamination while not wearing them | • Keeping your trays in a case when not in use ensures they stay safe, clean, and free from debris or germs that could accumulate. |
Invisalign aligner trays are the custom mouth guards designed for people who want to straighten their teeth. It’s a safe, comfortable, and better looking alternative to braces. The trays are specially designed to systematically straighten teeth over a period of 6 to 24 months, and a new tray is typically provided every 7 to 14 days during treatment.
A bad odour on your aligners could be as a result of food particles trapped in the trays. Make sure you take them out before eating or drinking anything. Also, be sure to soak and clean them at least twice a day to sanitise them and kill any bacteria from leftover food in your mouth.
Yes, it is good to brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners. This will ensure that no food gets trapped in your mouth while you are wearing your Invisalign aligner trays. Cleaning your teeth and thoroughly rinsing your mouth before reinserting aligners will also help prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and bad breath.
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I had a great experience at JC Dental. Dr. Colleen is very gentle, professional, knowledgeable and very informative. Dr. Colleen made me feel comfortable and pain-free through out the whole process. Thank you Dr. Colleen. I would highly recommend this practice!
I went for a checkup, scale and clean. Dr Colleen Ling did an amazing job on my teeth! She is very gentle, caring and very patient.
My dental experience with her was very positive & reassuring. She showed great concern and is ever so lovely.
JJ and Colleen are both gentle, compassionate and efficient. They explain through the procedure to make sure you are aware of the details and the associated fees before you commit.
Dr. Colleen is a highly professional, kind, and patient dentist. She has been taking care of my family members’ teeth for many years
Did my invisalign braces with Dr Colleen. Great results. Would highly recommend!