Taking Care Of Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

Proper upkeep and good oral hygiene are essential in keeping your Invisalign clear aligners clean, invisible, and odor-free.

You can easily remove clear aligners for eating and drinking; however, failing to clean your aligners afterward properly can result in discoloration and bacteria buildup. It is good to periodically clear debris from your aligners with a soft toothbrush and water to maintain clarity.

Don't use toothpaste due to abrasives that can create micro-abrasions that make your aligners look cloudy and dull. Don't use denture cleaners to clean clear aligners, and don't soak your aligners in mouthwash. These products can damage the surface of the plastic, causing it to become more visible, sometimes making the teeth look somewhat yellow.

• Rinse your aligners when you remove them: Dry saliva and plaque create a perfect breeding ground for foul smelling bacteria.
• Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners: Proper oral hygiene is key in maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay.
• Brush your aligners gently: Vigorous brushing can scratch your aligners and leave visible etchings. Brush carefully!

Don't eat or drink (anything but water) while wearing Invisalign. Many foods and drinks can stain or discolor your aligners. And remember…using toothpaste to clean your clear aligners will scratch the plastic and dull your aligners. These scratches can also create small traps in your aligners for bacteria to dwell.