Invisalign trays are more than a cosmetic treatment, but hygiene and success of the treatment demand that they be cleaned. Throughout the day when you are wearing Invisalign, the aligners are resting on your teeth most of the time, and if the trays are not cleaned daily, this is an area where bacteria like to move to. Understanding how frequently and how to clean your trays can keep your mouth in balance and your aligners clean and working properly.
Why Clean Invisalign Trays?
Consider your Invisalign trays as a part of your teeth. If you don't clean your teeth, they're a haven for bacteria; similarly with aligners, if you don't clean them. Unbrushed trays will result in plaque, bad breath, tooth discoloration, and even cavities or gum disease. Smokers will notice yellowish or brownish discoloration of their trays as well. Unclean trays not only smell but are also less clear, thus less invisible.
The risks are obvious where Invisalign trays not being cleaned is the case. To ensure these risks are avoided, regular cleaning must become a habit.
How Frequently Do You Brush Invisalign Trays?
You need to be regular when cleaning Invisalign trays. You have to clean your aligners at least once in the morning and once before bedtime at night. It is also wise after meals because it removes food particles or bacteria in the trays that have been trapped and transferred from teeth.
Some other Invisalign users like to rinse their trays each time they take them out, not giving saliva and bacteria a chance to collect. Rinsing does not replace daily cleaning, but is a great addition to the routine.
Best Methods to Clean Invisalign Trays
The ideal method of Invisalign tray cleaning is through gentle care and strong products. Clean your trays daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water. Avoid using toothpaste since the abrasive substances will leave micro-scratches on the surface of the aligner, where bacteria will more likely stick.
For more thorough cleaning for your trays, utilize Invisalign cleaning crystals or antibacterial soap and your brush. Cleaning crystals are particularly intended to eliminate odor-causing plaque and bacteria very efficiently. Soak the trays in water with dissolved crystals for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse well before applying them again.
The other alternative is to soak your trays in a half water, half white vinegar solution for around 15 minutes. This natural solution discolors and kills bacteria without causing any damage to the trays, but make sure you rinse them well afterward so that there is no lingering vinegar taste.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Invisalign Trays
Though you would want your trays to be clean, there are cleansers and techniques that would cause more damage than benefit. Hot water, for example, will distort the plastic and make your aligners unusable. Warm water is what you must use.
Steer clear of harsh chemicals such as bleach, which will degrade the aligner material and also leave poisonous residue. Steer clear of colored or scented soap as well, as they will leave a color or a bad taste behind.
Finally, steer clear of harsh cleaning aids such as hard-bristled brushes or baking soda. While they are fine for scrubbing tough stains elsewhere, they will damage your aligners' surface and leave them more susceptible to bacteria. Be sure to follow your experts in Invisalign in Royal Palm Beach because they can provide tailored advice.
Practice Hygiene for a Healthy Smile
In order to achieve the optimal result of your Invisalign treatment, you must clean your trays on a regular basis and in a proper manner. A twice-a-day cleaning habit, coupled with the proper techniques and tools, will keep your aligners fresh, clean, and your mouth healthier. Cut no corners and don’t employ cleaning methods that will destroy your aligners and your mouth.
For a newer, fresher Invisalign experience, it is not too late to renew your routine. Get properly equipped with the correct tips and methods, and smile away!
