Invisalign offers a clear path to a straighter smile, but keeping those aligners clean is important for maintaining their effectiveness—and their subtle aesthetics.
Maintaining a sparkling grin with Invisalign doesn’t involve complex routines or harsh chemicals. It can be as simple as brushing them twice a day and soaking them once a day. Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is all about incorporating a few simple habits and using the right products.
Here are the basic steps for keeping your Invisalign aligners clean:
- Brush your aligners twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap
- Use lukewarm water and never hot water
- Soak your aligners once a day
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning
You can also go beyond basics by following other key habits and adjusting your lifestyle and dental hygiene routine to further support the function and appearance of your Invisalign aligners.
What Is Invisalign & What Is It Used For?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners used in orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are designed to be virtually invisible and removable.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made aligners crafted from a smooth, flexible plastic material that apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into your desired position.
You typically wear each aligner for 20–22 hours per day, switching to a new one every 1–2 weeks. Each aligner is slightly different to help shift your teeth gradually over time.
An Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the complexity of your needs. The cost of Invisalign can vary depending on the treatment plan and your location. Regular dental checkups are still necessary even while wearing Invisalign.
What Problems Can Invisalign Address?
Invisalign can effectively address a variety of teeth straightening needs, including:
- Mild to moderate crowding (overlapping or misaligned teeth)
- Spacing issues (gaps between teeth)
- Open bite (when the upper and lower front teeth don’t touch)
- Overbite (when the upper front teeth protrude significantly over the lower teeth)
- Underbite (when the lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth)
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign may be a suitable option for you if you:
- Have healthy teeth and gums
- Are committed to wearing the aligners as prescribed
- Have mild to moderate orthodontic issues
- Prefer a more discreet treatment than traditional braces
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for Invisalign. You should talk to your dentist to determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your individual needs and oral health.
How to Take Care of Your Invisalign Aligners
We’ve all heard that old saying: a dirty mouth will not lead to a clean body. Maybe that’s not exactly how it goes, but the principle stands. For Invisalign to deliver your ideal smile, your aligners must be as free from bacteria, stains, and odours as feasibly possible.
Cleaning your aligners regularly helps prevent oral health issues like cavities and gum disease while helping your treatment plan run on a clean and effective track. A hygienic approach to your Invisalign routine is like regular maintenance for your car—you don’t want to compromise on the performance.
To stay on track, follow a daily regimen focused on consistency. It should become as routine as caring for your teeth—twice a day, every day, and then some.
Brushing basics:
- Twice a day is key: Just like your teeth, you should brush your aligners twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush (different from the one you use to brush your teeth) and clear, unscented antibacterial soap.
- Gentle does it: Avoid scrubbing, as it can scratch the aligners and create spaces for bacteria to build up.
- Rinse thoroughly: Use lukewarm water to rinse and remove any remaining soap residue and food particles after cleaning your aligners.
- Store properly: Store your aligners in their protective case when not in use.
- Rinse after meals: Whenever you remove your aligners for eating or drinking (except water), give them a quick rinse.
Avoid:
- Using harsh chemicals or toothpaste that can damage plastic aligners.
- Cleaning with hot water, as it can warp the aligners.
- Chewing gum or smoking while wearing your aligners.
- Eating or drinking (except water) while wearing your aligners.
- Drinking anything that can cause stains, like coffee, tea, and red wine. If you do drink these beverages, brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in.
Soak Your Aligners Every Day
Some food particles and bacteria won’t be brushed away, so Invisalign aligners should be soaked at least once a day to keep them clean and fresh.
The Invisalign cleaning system is designed to keep your aligners odour-free, hygienic, and clear. They only need to soak for about 15 minutes. Once they’re done soaking, give them a good brushing to remove stubborn plaque, rinse them, and put them back in after brushing your teeth.
Bonus Tips
- Deep clean weekly: Once a week, soak your aligners in a denture-cleaning solution specifically designed for clear aligners.
- Ask your dentist: Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for personalized cleaning advice based on your specific needs.
- Keep consistent: Consistent cleaning is crucial for maintaining the clear look of your Invisalign aligners.
Call Your Dentist to Learn More About Invisalign
Your Markham Dental Smiles team is here to help. If you’re thinking about pursuing Invisalign, either for yourself or your child, give us a call or book an appointment. We would be happy to discuss the benefits of this treatment and answer any questions you may have.
