Are you looking to transform your smile with Invisalign in London?
To achieve optimal results, you must wear your custom-made aligners for at least 20 hours each day.
However, just because each set of aligners will only be worn for two weeks, it doesn’t mean you can skimp on oral hygiene. They still need to be cleaned to prevent plaque, stains, and occasional food particles from building up and leaving your aligners dirty and smelly.
Read on for expert tips on how to clean your Invisalign® aligners – extending their lifespan and ensuring your treatment stays on track.
What should you use to clean your Invisalign®?
For daily cleaning
One of the most effective Invisalign® cleaning tips is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush (one that’s different from your regular toothbrush) and Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals with warm water.
Be wary of using normal toothpaste as it can scratch your aligners and leave a residue – leading to discolouration – and avoid using hot water as it can alter the shape and fit of your plastic aligners.
Remember to rinse and dry your Invisalign® before putting it back in your mouth.
For stain removal
When wearing your clear aligners, the only thing you should drink is water. Any coloured juices or caffeinated drinks (or mints or chewing gum) can stain or damage them, which can make for a long two weeks of wearing.
If your aligners have discoloured and you’ve cleaned them with a mild toothpaste or Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals, try soaking them in a solution that is half peroxide and half warm water for 20-30 minutes.
For hard build-up
Diluting 1 part of white vinegar in 3 parts of lukewarm water can help keep your Invisalign® fresh – eliminating odours and bacteria.
Allow them to soak for 20 minutes, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush in the nooks and crannies of each aligner to remove any plaque that has been loosened by the vinegar.
After cleaning your Invisalign® with vinegar, don’t forget to rinse them thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water before reinserting them into your mouth.
How often should you clean your Invisalign®?
We typically advise patients to clean their Invisalign® clear aligners properly every time they brush their teeth, to help shift any built-up food or debris.
Bacteria can build up on your aligners while you sleep, so it’s more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.
After each meal, give your Invisalign® a thorough rinse with water (and a quick brush with your soft toothbrush, if possible) before putting it back in.
To keep your plastic aligners odour-free, hygienic, and clear, we highly recommend using Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals to soak them once a day for a minimum of 15 minutes. Most people do this at night before they brush their teeth and go to bed.
5 things to remember when cleaning Invisalign
1. Don’t leave your aligners out in the open
Invisalign® aligners are to be worn for 20-22 hours each day and, when you’re not wearing them, you should store them in their case.
Leaving them out in the open air exposes them to more bacteria – plus, your aligners are more likely to go missing or get damaged if they’re not kept safe.
2. Be prepared when going on trips
If you’re going away for a long time and you know you’ll need to switch to a new set of aligners while you’re away from home, take them along with you.
It’s also worth scheduling an appointment with your dentist so they can perform a deep clean of your teeth and check for potential issues that could arise while you’re on your travels.
3. Never use hot water
Hot water can cause Invisalign® aligners to warp – so much so that they might not fit properly when you next go to put them back in.
To be on the safe side and still ensure a decent clean, stick to tepid water that won’t cause damage to your clear, plastic aligners.
4. Always take them out for eating and drinking
Although you should only drink water while wearing your aligners, avoiding the usual stain culprits such as tea, coffee, red wine, or spicy food, berries, and beetroot will reduce the chances of build-up on both your natural teeth and your nearly invisible aligners.
It helps if you get into the habit of carrying your case with you, so you can pop your Invisalign® in whenever you fancy a drink or a bite to eat.
5. Remember to clean your aligner case
Equally as important as brushing your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth is cleaning your Invisalign® case.
Ideally, you should wash your case at least once a week with warm water and mild soap. This will help to remove any loose debris from your aligners and prevent stains and odours – not to mention kill any bacteria that may be lurking inside.
Need further Invisalign® cleaning tips?
If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, knowing how to care for your aligners and achieve a gorgeous smile is crucial. These tips also apply if you’re wearing Angel Aligners as the cleaning routine is virtually identical.
Luckily, the team at Kai Dental are experts in orthodontics and are always on hand to offer our top tips on how to clean Invisalign® aligners quickly, safely, and effectively.
To speak to a member of our experienced team at our dentist near Marylebone about this discreet teeth straightening treatment, you’re welcome to call 020 7229 4033 or email hello@kaidental.co.uk today.
