Due to the ease of removal for eating, drinking, and daily activities, proper and regular cleaning of clear Invisalign aligners is crucial to minimize discoloration and the formation of bacteria within the oral cavity. In this article, Champion Dental will share methods for cleaning clear Invisalign aligners, ensuring they remain clean, bright, and enhance the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.
When should you clean Invisalign aligners?
Clear Invisalign aligners are considered an essential component of the Invisalign orthodontic treatment process. It is currently the most popular method of teeth straightening due to its notable benefits in terms of effectiveness, aesthetics, and convenience.
According to orthodontic specialists, wearing clear Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day is necessary to achieve optimal results and shorten treatment time. Therefore, clear Invisalign aligners become an indispensable partner throughout the orthodontic journey. Consequently, oral hygiene and aligner maintenance are of utmost importance to uphold cleanliness and oral health.
The ideal time to clean Invisalign aligners is every morning. This ensures that your mouth and breath remain fresh and clean. When we sleep and continue wearing the aligners, bacteria can infiltrate the gaps between the teeth and proliferate. Therefore, removing the aligners, cleaning the mouth, and cleaning the clear Invisalign aligners every morning are essential steps.
Some Ways to Clean Invisalign Aligners
Using Toothpaste
Cleaning clear Invisalign aligners with toothpaste is a simple and convenient method for busy individuals. You can use the same toothpaste you use for brushing your teeth or choose any toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth to clean the clear aligners. You'll need a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently brush the inside and outside surfaces of the aligners. Then, rinse the aligners thoroughly with water to complete the cleaning process in a straightforward and time-efficient manner.
Cleaning Invisalign Aligners with Vinegar
An effective method for cleaning Invisalign aligners is using vinegar with the following three steps to ensure professionalism and effectiveness:
- Dilute vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio.
- Soak the aligners in the prepared solution for approximately 15-30 minutes.
- Afterward, gently brush the aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and rinse them thoroughly with warm water.
Using Specialized Cleaning Solutions
One of the preferred methods for cleaning clear Invisalign aligners is using specialized solutions such as Retainer Brite or Invisalign Cleaning Crystals. This is the most effective way to clean the aligners and maintain their maximum cleanliness, ensuring they remain bright and vibrant.
To implement this method, you need to dilute the specialized cleaning solution with warm water according to the instructions. Then, soak the clear aligners in the prepared solution for approximately 15 minutes and gently brush them with a soft-bristle toothbrush before rinsing with warm water.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
To clean Invisalign aligners, you can use a homemade solution with the following recipe:
- Dilute hydrogen peroxide with warm water in a 1:1 ratio to create a safe disinfecting solution. Then, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and stir well.
- Soak the aligners in the solution for 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the level of discoloration.
- After soaking, gently brush the aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and rinse with warm water.
This method not only helps clean the aligners on a daily basis but also whitens and restores their transparency, eliminating any yellowish tint and making the aligners appear brighter. This ensures the aesthetic aspect of Invisalign treatment.
>> See more: The benefits of orthodontic bracket placement, and is it painful?
Invisalign aligners care instructions
During the use of Invisalign trays, in addition to knowing how to clean them effectively, it is also important to properly maintain them. Here are some recommended methods for maintaining clear Invisalign trays as suggested by many experts.
- Avoid exposing the trays to strongly colored foods and beverages such as coffee, soda, and tea to prevent staining.
- When not using the trays, store them in a separate case to avoid dust and bacteria.
- Avoid exposing the trays to high temperatures, for example, do not place them near stoves or in hot water.
- Do not use chlorine-based whitening agents to clean the trays as they may cause damage and discoloration.
- After cleaning, ensure that both your teeth and the trays are thoroughly clean before putting the trays back on to avoid plaque buildup.
Proper cleaning and maintenance of Invisalign trays are crucial to maintaining oral health and ensuring the effectiveness of the teeth alignment process. If you have any concerns or questions, contact your dental professional for further guidance.
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