How do you clean your Invisalign trays?

Keeping your Invisalign trays clean is essential, daily wear necessitates the need for daily maintenance. Aligners are designed to fit tightly to the teeth, which, if improperly cleaned, can cause bacteria to grow. Without proper care, the aligner will start to smell and discolour.

Patients should wash their trays at least once a day, in the evening. However, if you have had a soft drink or juice, we advise you to rinse them thoroughly. Similarly, if food has become trapped, rinse the aligner.

Aligners should not be worn whilst eating or drinking (aside from water) as it can cause pigment to stain the teeth. Food can get caught between the Invisalign and teeth, and in some cases damage the aligner. Avoid hot drinks to prevent the treys from warping.

Different methods to clean your aligners

Cleaning your teeth is equally as important as maintaining your aligners. Flossing and brushing your teeth ensures no food is left behind or trapped beneath the Invisalign tray.

The most common method to clean your aligner trays is by using a soft-bristled toothbrush with warm water running over the aligner. Use a separate brush from the one used to clean your teeth.

Invisalign offers two cleaning products for aligners that work in slightly different ways.

The first product is the Steraligner. The product includes a tray in which the aligners are placed. A solution containing alcohol and sodium bicarbonate is then applied, covering the aligners. Allow the aligners to sit in the solution for three minutes, followed by a rinse and gentle brush. This method is particularly effective as it sterilises.

The second product Invisalign sells is cleaning crystals containing sodium sulphate, and sodium lauryl sulphate, amongst other cleaning chemicals. Using a lidded container may help in this process, as you will need to shake the solution. Pour lukewarm water onto the crystals, ensuring there is enough water to cover the aligners. Shake the solution to ensure the crystals and water are combined and let the Invisalign sit for 15 minutes before proceeding to rinse and gently scrub off.

To ensure your aligner doesn’t get damaged or dirty whilst not being worn, store it in an appropriate container.