Cleaning Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Maintaining proper hygiene for your Invisalign and clear aligners is crucial not only for the longevity of the aligners but also for your overall oral health. Here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts when cleaning aligners to ensure a pristine and effective orthodontic journey.
Do’s:
Rinse before re-inserting your aligners:
Always rinse your Invisalign and other clear aligners with lukewarm water before putting them back in your mouth. This helps remove any saliva or leftover cleaning solution.
Soak your aligners in denture cleaner:
Periodically soak your aligners in a denture, retainer or mouth guard cleaning solution. This helps eliminate bacteria and prevents odours, keeping your aligners fresh.
Brush your teeth before inserting your aligners:
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth before re-inserting your clear aligners. This prevents food particles and bacteria from getting trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
Carry a travel toothbrush:
When you’re on the go, carry a travel toothbrush to ensure you can brush your aligners after meals. Keeping a small, portable dental kit can be a game-changer.
Don’ts:
Avoid hot water:
Never use hot water to clean your Invisalign or clear aligners. High temperatures can warp the plastic, compromising the fit and effectiveness of the aligners.
Miss brushing your teeth:
Neglecting to brush your teeth before re-inserting your aligners allows bacteria to thrive, leading to potential oral health issues. Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine.
Avoid harsh cleaners:
Refrain from using harsh cleaners, such as bleach or abrasive toothpaste, as they can damage the aligners’ surface and compromise their clarity.
Don’t eat or drink (except water) when wearing your aligners:
Make sure you remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Consuming anything besides water with your aligners inserted can lead to staining and damage to both the aligners and your teeth.
So, what’s the verdict?
By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll ensure that your Invisalign clear aligners stay clean, clear, and effective throughout your orthodontic treatment, leading to a confident smile at the end of your journey.
If you’re interested in learning more about how clear aligners can change your smile for the better, book a consultation with the friendly team at Donna Lim Orthodontics who will craft the perfect treatment plan to get you the result you deserve!
