The fact that Invisalign aligners require cleaning is among the most crucial things to remember during the cleaning method for Invisalign. The aligners still require cleaning, even if you discard them every few weeks. If not, you could wear a pair of smelly or dirty aligners daily. Continue reading the blog to find out the best methods to keep your aligners clean.
Rinsing vs. Cleaning Invisalign Aligners
Remember that washing and rinsing are different regarding Invisalign. Although rinsing your aligners may make them seem a little cleaner, you haven’t taken action to eliminate the invisible germs that can accumulate. The fundamental cleaning procedure for nightly cleaning that is important for Invisalign cleanliness is as follows:
- After brushing, thoroughly rinse.
- To remove food particles or debris overnight, brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, clear liquid detergent.
- When not in use, place them in a secure case and store them.
- Every night, rinse your aligners with water.
- After removing your aligners, could you quickly wash them in warm water?
- Include one package of crystals for Invisalign cleaning.
- To dissolve the crystals, shake the container vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Give the tub a gentle shake once more for twenty seconds.
- Before using your aligners, please thoroughly rinse in warm water.
Different Types of Cleaning Accessories
“Steraligner” is a product offered by Invisalign with a tray. Among the components are sodium bicarbonate, a natural antimicrobial, and rubbing alcohol. Your aligners must soak in the tray for three minutes to maintain cleanliness. To be cleaned, your aligners must soak in the tray for three minutes. After rinsing off the sterilising solution, please give it a warm water brush during the cleaning method for Invisalign. Another product Invisalign offers is “cleaning crystals,” which you dissolve in water and use to soak your aligners.
Sodium sulphate is one of the cleaning agents found in these crystals. If you’re searching for a more affordable and easily accessible substitute, these components are comparable to those found in retainer cleaning solutions (not denture cleansers). Have a look at some cleaning accessories:
- Invisalign Cleansing Crystals
- Invisalign Cleaning System
- Invisalign Sterilizing Tray
Are the Finest Cleaning Techniques the Subject of Any Research?
The simple cleaning procedure can keep your aligners clean at night, although there may be more comprehensive solutions. Three strategies were:
- Combining brushing with effervescent pill use
- Using water to rinse
- Using toothpaste and a toothbrush to clean the aligners by yourselves
How frequently should your aligners be cleaned?
You should clean your aligners when you brush and floss your teeth every night. This aids in clearing away any food particles, dirt, and germs you inadvertently gather during the day. Additionally, you can clean your Invisalign if they seem noticeably unclean, which could happen if you put them on too soon after eating or unintentionally drink anything opaque while wearing them.
You should rinse your aligners and use more thorough cleaning techniques whenever you remove them. You should also thoroughly clean them when replacing them every two weeks. Failing to do so may result in poor breath or discoloured aligners that make your teeth appear yellow. Additionally, you expose your teeth to bacteria over time.
Daily Cleaning Method of Invisalign
Cleaning your Invisalign may be done in various ways, but some are more effective.
- Deep Cleaning: Invisalign cleaning crystals need Invisalign aligners thoroughly for cleaning. Sodium sulphate is one of the cleaning agents found in these crystals.
- Cleaning: Clear, antimicrobial, unscented soap works gently and well for everyday cleaning. Mix a tiny bit of liquid soap with warm water, then use a soft toothbrush to brush your aligners. Please give them a thorough rinse before placing them back in your mouth.
- Remove Stains: If you see any stains on your aligners, try creating a solution by mixing equal parts hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water. After soaking the solution for approximately fifteen minutes, gently brush the aligners with a toothbrush and rinse them well.
- Hard Buildup: If you see hard buildup on your aligners, try soaking them in lukewarm water and distilled white vinegar for about 15 minutes. Then, brush them softly with a mild toothbrush and rinse them well. Any other kind of vinegar will stain your aligners.
What type of cleanser should you avoid?
Some specific cleaners are too abrasive or harmful to use on your Invisalign aligners. These consist of, for instance:
- Mouthwashes, particularly the alcohol-containing ones
- Toothpaste
- Scented soaps, which can quickly acquire an unpleasant taste
- Denture disinfectants
- Do not use hot water
- Never use abrasive cleaning materials
- Don’t apply bleach-containing products
You must avoid using soaps for washing and cleaning. These can quickly discolour your Invisalign, making two weeks of wear necessary. Using a toothbrush with coarse bristles rather than a gentle one might also be too harsh for your Invisalign.
Guidelines for maintaining your aligners
Maintaining your aligners’ cleanliness and bacterial-free condition may be achieved by adhering to certain recommended practices. Here are a few instances:
- When eating, you should permanently remove your aligners. Otherwise, food particles may accumulate within them or cause damage that renders them ineffective.
- Whenever you are not using your aligners, put them away in an airtight container. This shields them from infection and lessens the chance of losing them.
- Avoid cleaning the trays with boiling water.
- Water is the only beverage you should consume while your aligners are in. Otherwise, you risk harming or staining them.
Following these procedures may be achieved by keeping your aligners clean and treating them at their best.
Bottom Line
While Invisalign is a popular method for straightening teeth, it’s crucial to maintain the cleanliness of the aligners to ensure their effectiveness.
Proper care of your aligners helps keep them clear and inconspicuous. However, since they are designed to be disposable, they cannot withstand harsh cleaning methods such as abrasive brushes or boiling water. To learn more about Invisalign and how to care for your aligners, you can schedule a consultation for Invisalign in Bromley.
