Starting Invisalign in Burlington is a fantastic step toward a straighter, more confident smile. But just like anything important in your life, your Invisalign aligners need proper care. They may look invisible, but when they aren’t cleaned and cared for properly, they can cause bad breath, cloudy trays, or even worse, an oral infection. The great news?
Easily and properly cleaning your aligners is simple if you know what to do. This ultimate guide will give you everything you need to know about caring for your aligners.
From daily cleaning tips to common mistakes, this guide is designed to keep your treatment on track and your smile shining.
Why Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners is So Important
Your Invisalign aligners are in close contact with your teeth for up to 22 hours a day. That means they collect saliva, bacteria, food particles, and plaque just like your teeth do, and unless you regularly clean them, clear trays can have nasty stains, odours, and gum issues.
In addition to oral health, clean aligners will also keep your aligners clear and invisible for others- no one can even tell you are wearing them!
As you can see, whatever Invisalign near you offers you in treatment, you’ll only be as successful as the effort and care you give to your treatment.
Cleaning Your Aligners: Daily Routine
Here is a quick and easy daily routine to maintain your Invisalign trays:
1. Rinse Immediately
Any time you take your aligners out for any reason (such as eating, drinking (anything other than plain water), or brushing), rinse your aligners with lukewarm water to wash away saliva and avoid build-up.
2. Brush Gently
With a soft toothbrush (not your regular toothbrush) and transparent, fragrance-free antibacterial soap, brush your aligners gently. Do not use toothpaste since it is too abrasive and can scratch your trays.
3. Soak Daily
One time per day, soak your trays in a cleaning solution (such as Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or denture cleaner). Leave them soaking for about 15-20 minutes before brushing and rinsing your trays to put them back into your mouth.
4. Store Away Safely
When you are not wearing your aligners, store them away in their protective case. Leaving them out may result in bacteria build-up, or you may accidentally misplace (lose) them.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Invisalign
Not all cleaning methods are safe for Invisalign. Here’s what not to do:
- Don’t use hot water: Heat can distort your aligners, and a distorted tray will not fit your teeth correctly.
- Skip the toothpaste: It may make sense, but toothpaste can scratch and fog the plastic.
- Avoid colored or scented soaps: These can leave a taste or tint behind.
- Don’t eat or drink with aligners in (except water): Foods and colored drinks can stain your trays and trap sugars.
Taking proper care will make it easier to find a reliable dental clinic near you that supports your treatment success.
Brushing and Flossing: Don’t Skip These!
If you don’t brush and floss aligners regularly, bacteria and plaque can get trapped between your teeth and the trays, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
Brush your teeth after every meal or snack and before replacing your aligners. If you’re away and can’t brush immediately, rinse your mouth with water until you can brush.
What If My Aligners Smell Bad?
If your aligners start to smell, that’s a sign that bacteria are building up. Make sure you’re brushing and soaking them daily. If the smell sticks around, try soaking in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and lukewarm water for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. If the issue continues, talk to your dentist—they might have stronger cleaning options for you.
If you’re unsure, a trusted dentist near you can always provide the right advice.
Travelling With Invisalign
Travelling with Invisalign is totally doable—you just need to plan ahead. Pack:
- Your case
- A spare toothbrush
- Travel-sized soap
- Cleaning crystals or tablets
- Extra aligners if you’re switching soon
Try to stick to your regular routine even while travelling. Your smile doesn’t take a vacation!
When to Switch to New Trays
Your dentist or orthodontist will give you a schedule for switching trays—usually every 1-2 weeks.
Even if your trays still appear clean, follow the schedule. Leaving aligners in for too long can hinder your progress and disrupt your results.
Always disinfect your new trays prior to first wear. And if unsure, your dentist can advise you on good hygiene procedures between changes.
Take the next step for your Perfect Smile!
Invisalign can be a game-changer for your smile—but only if you care for your aligners the right way. Cleaning them daily, avoiding bad habits, and sticking to your dentist’s schedule are the keys to a smooth journey and a beautiful result.
At Burlington Family Dentists, our team is here to support you from start to finish. Whether you’re just beginning your Invisalign journey or are already deep into your treatment, our expert care can make all the difference. If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Burlington, our clinic is the perfect place to start. We’re proud to be a top-rated dental clinic offering personalized Invisalign treatment for all ages.
