Always Keep Your Trays in Their Travel Case
It’s important to never leave home without your hard, protective Invisalign aligner case. Each time you eat or take out your trays, never leave them out in the open air. This could cause a buildup of bacteria as well as increase the likelihood that you’ll accidentally damage or ruin them. If you get into the habit of having them in their case at all times, they’ll remain clean and protected. If you do happen to leave your trays out, be sure to rinse or soak them before you put them back in your mouth to prevent bacteria transfer.
Don’t Clean Your Aligners With Toothpaste
Even though toothpaste is great to clean your teeth with, it’s too abrasive to use to scrub your aligners. It can cause them to scratch and discolor, making them more visible while you’re wearing them. It can also cause them to develop a dull sheen to them, making them even more noticeable. Instead, gently brush your aligners using a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush and clear, antibacterial soap.
Rinse Your Trays Every Morning
Each morning after you brush your teeth, be sure to take out your trays and thoroughly clean your aligners as well. Overnight, dried saliva and bacteria are likely to buildup on your trays, which is why it’s important to clean them before your day begins, so these harmful substances don’t have an opportunity to sit on your teeth for several hours. Be sure to do this every evening before bed as well.
Soak Your Aligners Daily
Each day, you’ll want to sanitize your aligners by soaking them in a 50/50 mixture of water and vinegar or a special Invisalign cleaning solution. Place them in a cup of either solution and pour it over your aligners, completely covering them. Soak them for 15 minutes and rinse them under cool or lukewarm water before placing them in your mouth. Remember to never rinse your aligners using scalding hot water, because it could affect their fit.
Brush and Floss Before Putting Your Aligners Back in Your Mouth
Always remember to brush and floss your trays after you eat, before you place them back in your mouth. If you don’t, food particles can become trapped between your trays and teeth, increasing your risk of developing oral health problems over the course of your treatment, such as cavities. When you follow these maintenance tips during your Invisalign treatment, you’ll be able to keep them looking as good as new so you can enjoy their best benefit—discretion! If you have any questions about how to use or care for your aligners, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.
