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There are many ways for cleaning your Invisalign aligners, one of which is using the Invisalign® Cleaning System. It is one of the most chosen cleaning regimens that offer a deep-cleaning technology for an invisibly fresh set of aligner and retainer.
Taking Care of Your Invisalign
Invisalign is today’s orthodontic treatment of choice for straightening and realigning your teeth. Besides providing comfortable and convenient dental support, Invisalign offers an alternative to traditional braces for a nearly invisible and unnoticeable treatment. To provide you with an optimal experience, you must keep your Invisalign as hygienic, odor-free, and clear as possible.
While we can achieve multiple benefits in using Invisalign, not taking care of them will result in its opposite effects. Several concerns such as discolorations, bacteria build-up, and unpleasant odor which might affect your overall dental health can happen. To avoid dealing with these issues, check out the do’s and don’ts as well as the following best practices in caring for your clear aligners.
What Is An Invisalign Cleaning System?
An Invisalign® cleaning system consists of a set of specially-developed crystals that help you maintain your clear aligners’ quality. Its formulation offers a thorough and deep cleansing that works in between crevices to kill any bacteria present instantly. It also prevents the development of plaque and other unnecessary growth.
How Do I Use An Invisalign Cleaning System?
Sanitizing your clear aligners involves the use of the following materials:
- Invisalign Cleaning System (Crystals)
- Small Cleansing Cup
- Clean Toothbrush with Soft Bristles
Cleaning your Invisalign involves two processes, rinsing and cleansing. To start the procedure, you must first rinse any leftover food or debris on your clear aligners using a toothbrush and warm water. It is best to submerge the clear aligners in water using a small cleansing cup to eliminate all possible traces and residues.
Making sure that all debris is gone from the surface, it is time to make use of the Invisalign cleaning crystals. These crystals dissolve in liquid to create a cleansing solution. In a separate cup of water, carefully place these crystals so that it completely disintegrates. Be mindful in stirring the solution well enough before putting the clear aligners. Soak the clear aligners in place for about fifteen minutes.
Once done, take out your clear aligners and rinse with warm water. Using a slightly saturated and soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub along the edges and crevices. Ensure that all stuck debris are eliminated, and give the clear aligners a final rinse before placing it in its case to dry.
How Often Should I Clean My Invisalign?
You should use your Invisalign cleaning system as often as possible. Experts also recommend cleaning your aligners regularly every time you take them off. Nonetheless, cleansing them twice a day is enough to keep away the bacteria and prevent the germ build-up.
Keeping your Invisalign clear and odorless throughout your orthodontic treatment will bring positive results, leaving you with a fresh and radiant smile.
Invisalign Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts
- Do clean your teeth and your Invisalign trays every morning and night
During your sleep, bacteria and germs may begin to build-up on your teeth and the Invisalign trays. Keeping this routine is essential to establish proper oral hygiene which you should also do every night before bed.
- Do rinse your aligners every time you take them off
Taking off your Invisalign can cause plaque and dried saliva to accumulate, which is why it is crucial to rinse every time you take them off. Doing this can get rid of the unnecessary particle build-up and make the aligners cleaner.
- Do soak using the Invisalign cleaning system
Brushing and rinsing your clear aligners are helpful, but most experts recommend soaking with Invisalign cleaning system and crystals. It can help cleanse away germs and bacteria that other cleaning solutions cannot remove with simple brushing and rinsing.
- Do floss your teeth before wearing the trays back in.
Ensuring that your teeth are clean before wearing your clear aligners will prevent particles from being trapped between your teeth and discourage the formation of plaque.
But…
- Don’t leave your clear aligners out in the open
Exposing the trays to open-air will harbor bacteria and germs. It is essential to keep an aligner case for storage to avoid damages. For instances when you forget to bring a case, be sure to cleanse and rinse the trays before putting it back in your mouth.
- Don’t forget to make a plan whenever you have long trips
Invisalign system requires you to switch between new aligners depending on your orthodontic treatment regimen. Mostly, however, requires weeks for a replacement procedure to rake place. If you have plans to travel, be sure to coordinate with your dentist to plan to switch your clear aligners throughout your trip.
- Don’t eat or drink with Invisalign
Eating food and drinking colored beverages are a huge no when it comes to Invisalign. Don’t forget to take out your aligners to prevent damaging your trays.
- Don’t use colored soap or toothpaste when cleaning your trays
Using colored cleaning materials for your trays will cause discoloration or damages. Consider Invisalign cleaning system when cleaning your aligners. These are specialized crystals that can clean and remove residues without affecting your trays’ appearance and taste.
References:
Frisbee, Evan. (November 2020). Invisible Aligners for Teeth.
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/invisible-orthodontic-aligners#1
Watson, Shawn. (January 2020). How to Clean and Care for an Invisalign Retainer.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-care-for-invisalign-retainers-1059347
Nall, Rachel. (October 2020). How to Clean Invisalign: Do’s, Don’ts, and Best Practices.
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-clean-invisalign