Invisalign aligners are a convenient and discreet way to achieve a straighter smile, but proper care is essential to ensure they stay clean, clear, and effective throughout your treatment. Knowing the do’s and don’ts of Invisalign care will help you maintain optimal hygiene, avoid damage, and keep your aligners looking and feeling their best. Here’s your complete guide to caring for Invisalign aligners.
Do’s: How to Properly Care for Your Invisalign Aligners
- Clean Your Aligners Regularly
It’s important to clean your aligners at least twice a day—ideally when you brush your teeth in the morning and evening. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented liquid soap to gently clean your aligners. This helps remove bacteria, plaque, and saliva buildup.
- Rinse Aligners When Removing Them
Each time you take out your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to prevent bacteria and debris from drying on the surface. This simple habit keeps them cleaner and fresher throughout the day.
- Brush and Floss Before Reinserting Aligners
Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This ensures that food particles and bacteria don’t get trapped between your teeth and aligners, which could lead to cavities or gum problems.
- Soak Aligners Daily
Soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture cleaner at least once a day. This helps eliminate stains, odors, and bacteria, keeping your aligners clear and hygienic. Our office offers Steraligner, a cleaning solution specifically designed for Invisalign aligners and other clear orthodontic retainers. It helps keep aligners clean, fresh, and free of bacteria and odors, contributing to both oral hygiene and the longevity of the aligners.
- Store Aligners in Their Case
Whenever you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in the protective case provided. This prevents them from getting lost or damaged and keeps them safe from bacteria or dirt.
- Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions
Adhere to the wear schedule and care guidelines your orthodontist provides. Typically, you’ll need to wear your aligners for 20–22 hours a day and switch to a new set every 1–2 weeks depending on your orthodontist’s recommendation.
Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid with Invisalign Aligners
- Don’t Eat or Drink with Aligners In
It’s generally advised to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and beverages can stain your aligners, cause odors, or even warp the plastic, compromising their clarity and fit. However, in rare cases, some doctors may recommend eating with aligners in for specific reasons, such as addressing bite or jaw alignment issues or ensuring adequate wear time for patients struggling to meet the 20–22 hour requirement. If you’re considering this approach, consult your orthodontist first to ensure it’s appropriate for your treatment plan.
- Avoid Hot Water
Never rinse or clean your aligners with hot water, as it can warp the plastic and compromise their fit. Always use lukewarm or cool water instead.
- Don’t Use Toothpaste to Clean Aligners
Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the surface of your aligners, making them appear cloudy. Stick to clear, unscented soap or Invisalign-approved cleaning solutions.
- Don’t Leave Aligners Out in the Open
Leaving aligners on countertops or other surfaces exposes them to bacteria and increases the risk of them being misplaced or damaged. Always use your storage case.
- Avoid Smoking or Chewing Gum with Aligners In
Smoking can discolor your aligners, while chewing gum can stick to them or pull them out of place. Remove your aligners before smoking or chewing gum.
- Don’t Skip Cleaning Your Teeth
Failing to brush and floss properly before reinserting aligners can lead to trapped food particles, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
Additional Tips for Invisalign Care
- Keep Extra Aligners Handy: Always carry your current aligners and a spare set in case of emergencies.
- Be Consistent with Wear Time: Invisalign aligners are most effective when worn consistently for 20–22 hours daily.
- Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your aligner changes and progress as instructed by your orthodontist.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure your treatment is on track.
Why Proper Care Matters
Caring for your Invisalign aligners not only ensures a smooth and hygienic treatment experience but also prevents costly replacements and keeps your treatment timeline on track. By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can maintain clear, clean aligners and focus on achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.
At Daia Orthodontics, we’re here to help you every step of the way on your Invisalign journey. If you have questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
Ready to start your Invisalign journey? Contact us today!
