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Misaligned teeth are more than an aesthetic concern. They can put your oral health at risk in the long run. For that reason, dentists often recommend orthodontic treatments to address potential issues and prevent irreparable damage. For a long time, patients—especially adults—were doubtful of the brackets and wires, but nowadays, Invisalign® in Fairfield is an option, too.

Clear aligners like Invisalign are a simple and effective way to straighten your smile. Nevertheless, you still have to work to keep them clean. If you struggle with your daily Invisalign cleanings, we have five tips to help you.

The Importance of Keeping Clear Aligners Clean

You may choose clear aligners over other orthodontic appliances for various reasons: the trays are removable, so you can eat and drink all you want. For the same reason, brushing your teeth and flossing daily becomes easy.  

Invisalign blends in seamlessly with your smile, allowing people to undergo orthodontic treatment without feeling self-conscious about any braces-like appliances. However, their magical invisibility may disappear if you don’t clean your trays.

Plaque buildup, tannins from foods, and other substances can discolor your Invisalign, darken your smile, and even put you at risk for tooth decay. For that reason, keeping them clean is crucial. If you struggle with that, here are some tips on how to do so.

1. Purchase the Right Equipment

The most important factor in aligner care is having the right equipment, not only to ensure they're cleaned thoroughly but also to prevent unwanted damage. Common toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch your aligners. Moreover, colored soaps or mouthwashes can stain or discolor them.

Instead, use clear, antibacterial soap for spotless cleaning.

2. Set Daily Reminders

You should clean your Invisalign trays daily to avoid water buildup, but it can be easy to forget about them in the rush of daily life. While we often recommend brushing your aligners when you brush your teeth at night, several circumstances can make this impossible.

Set a daily alarm when you know you’ll be available to prevent forgetting your aligner care. That way, you can ensure you’ll dedicate your Invisalign trays to the thorough cleaning they need!

3. Rinse After Every Meal

Rinse your trays quickly with lukewarm water each time you remove them for eating, drinking, or brushing. This will wash food particles and saliva off the plastic before it dries.

4. Soak Them Regularly

To keep your aligners feeling and looking new, soak them every day. You can use over-the-counter retainer cleaning tablets or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Rinse them well, brush them afterward, and follow the instructions. This helps keep bad odors and bacteria in check.

5. Store in Their Case

Store your trays in their storage case when not in use to prevent bacteria and damage. They may be accidentally lost or exposed to germs if left on a table or napkin.  

Guarantee the Success of Your Invisalign in Fairfield

Keeping your Invisalign trays clean isn’t just about preventing any detours to your orthodontic treatment—it’s also essential for your oral health. Poor aligner hygiene can lead to stained trays, bad breath, and bacterial buildup.

In the long run, this can cause gum disease or tooth decay, putting more than your aligner treatment at risk. Besides daily aligner care, regular teeth cleaning at Brooklawn Dental Associates can be crucial to keeping your smile's shine. If you’re due for a checkup, contact us today to schedule an appointment!

*Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/ or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.