Invisalign aligners are used to straighten misaligned teeth. This type of orthodontic treatment is worn for around 20 hours out of the day, so it’s key that they’re properly maintained for them to work and the teeth to remain in good condition.
Storing your aligner
The best practice for storing an Invisalign aligner is in a specialised case designed to hold them. This protects the aligner from any external objects which could damage it, as well as shielding it from any bacteria or dirt that it would otherwise be exposed to.
In the circumstance your aligner container isn’t readily available, storing it in a sterile and dry place is important. You can use something like a Tupperware or sandwich bag to keep it sealed from bacteria. Make sure not to put it in a pocket or anywhere out in the open, as you risk losing it or it becoming dirty.
Cleaning your aligner
There are a couple of different methods you can employ to thoroughly clean your Invisalign trays. The key to a healthy smile with an aligner is to maintain the teeth with routine brushing and flossing.
An aligner should be maintained daily to keep the teeth and mouth healthy.
Basic upkeep
For instance, for day-to-day maintenance, using a soft-bristle toothbrush (separate from your everyday toothbrush) with a small glob of toothpaste and warm water can help keep it clean. Brush the inside and outside of the aligner, making sure to brush in the crevices so no bacteria is left behind.
Rinsing your aligner between wears is also a great way to make sure any food or drink particles that have transferred are washed away.
Deep cleaning your aligner
There are a couple of products designed to clean aligners. Usually coming in the form of a solution or crystals, which are then mixed with water. Each product contains slightly different ingredients, but both work to sterilise the trays with cleansing agents.
To clean your aligner with Invisalign’s Steraligner product, put your aligner into a Tupperware, cover it with the solution and let it soak for three minutes. Once the time has completed, rinse the aligner and gently brush to remove the remaining solution.
If you are using a crystal-based cleaning product, begin by popping the aligner into a Tupperware. Using warm water, dissolve the cleaning crystals and cover the aligner with the liquid. Allow it to soak for a couple of minutes before rinsing and brushing to complete the cleaning process.
What not to do with your aligner
You should not be eating or drinking with your aligner in, as it can cause damage to it. The aligners are not designed to withstand the wear and tear of chewing food or coming into contact with hot liquid or food. Heat can cause the material to warp, rendering it ineffective for use.
Wearers should remove the aligner trays before eating and brush their teeth before reinserting. This will keep the aligner sanitary and the teeth protected from potential issues like decay and plaque buildup.
Aligners need to be worn for a significant time in the day, so ensuring they are kept clean and free from damage is key to a successful treatment. With proper maintenance, your aligners can keep their discreet translucent appearance, and your teeth will remain healthy