You’re working your way towards a sparkling smile - but are you taking proper care of your Invisalign aligners? Keeping your Invisalign in good shape requires consistent cleaning habits using the right products, not just a perfunctory clean every now and then. There are even some cleaning agents that might cause more harm than good. Whether you're new to Invisalign or just looking to improve your cleaning practices, this guide will teach you how to clean Invisalign aligners, tricks for removing stains, and tips for consistent care. We’ll also discuss why keeping your aligners clean is so crucial, and the tools and products that can make the cleaning process easier and more effective.

Why is it important to keep your aligners clean?

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is essential for several reasons:

1. Hygiene - Bacteria and plaque can accumulate on your aligners just as they do on your teeth! Similarly to poor oral hygiene, dirty aligners can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
2. Appearance - As the name suggests, Invisalign aligners are designed to be invisible. If they become stained or cloudy, they can be noticeable and detract from the aesthetic appeal.
3. Effectiveness - Debris buildup inside your aligners can prevent them from fitting properly, impacting the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
4. Oral Health - Ensuring your aligners are clean helps to maintain your oral health, reducing the risk of infections, gingivitis, and other dental issues. 

How often should you clean your aligners?

Invisalign aligners should be cleaned at least twice a day; you can make this a part of your toothbrushing routine at both morning and night. Additionally, rinsing your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them can help keep them free from saliva and food particles. For optimal hygiene, consider giving them a more thorough clean every time you brush your teeth after meals.

Cleaning and rinsing Invisalign aligners

Cleaning involves using appropriate cleaning agents to remove bacteria, plaque, and stains from your aligners - you can also use a toothbrush to gently remove any stubborn bits of debris. Rinsing simply means washing the aligners under lukewarm water. While rinsing can help remove surface debris, it is not a substitute for thorough cleaning, as it does not effectively remove bacteria or plaque buildup.

Invisalign Cleaning accessories

There are various accessories specifically designed for keeping your Invisalign aligners squeaky clean.

Steraligner with sterilising tray

The Steraligner system includes a sterilising tray and a special cleaning solution. The tray allows you to soak your aligners, ensuring they are thoroughly cleaned. This method is particularly effective in removing bacteria and maintaining the aligners' clarity, as the Steraligner solution removes 17 of the most common forms of bacteria found on oral appliances, instead of just masking unsightly discolouration or smells.

Invisalign Cleaning System and crystals

The Invisalign Cleaning System includes special cleaning tubs and dissolvable cleaning crystals. This system is designed to deeply clean and disinfect your aligners, removing plaque and bacteria and keeping your aligners in the best shape possible. The crystals are part of the Invisalign Cleaning System, but can also be purchased separately for regular use. Simply dissolve the crystals in warm water and soak your aligners for the recommended amount of time - you can also use a toothbrush to gently clean your aligners in the solution, but make sure the bristles aren’t too stiff.

Invisalign cleaning spray and foam

Cleaning sprays and foams are convenient for on-the-go cleaning. These products are designed to be sprayed directly onto your aligners and then wiped clean. They are a quick and easy hygiene solution, created to be used throughout the day while out and about, and are useful to have in case your accidentally eat or drink with your aligners in.

Best cleaning practices

To keep your aligners in the best condition, follow these best practices:

1. Daily clean with clear anti-bacterial unscented soap

Use clear, unscented anti-bacterial soap to clean your aligners every day. Avoid using coloured or scented soaps as they can stain your aligners or leave unsightly residue.

2. Removing stains with hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is great for removing stains from aligners. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, and soak your aligners in the solution for about 30 minutes. This solution helps to whiten and disinfect your aligners - but make sure you rinse them thoroughly after soaking.

3. Removing buildup with white vinegar

For hard mineral buildup, you can use distilled white vinegar- it has to be white vinegar though, as any other kind will end up staining your aligners. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water and soak your aligners for 15-30 minutes. This solution helps to dissolve buildup without causing any damage to your aligners.

4. Deep clean with Invisalign cleaning crystals

For a deep clean, use the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals once or twice a week. These crystals are designed to thoroughly clean and disinfect your aligners, removing any stubborn stains or plaque buildup.

Cleansers to avoid

Certain cleaning agents can damage your Invisalign aligners. Here are some things to avoid.

1. Denture cleaner or mouthwash

Denture cleaners are too harsh for Invisalign aligners and can cause them to become discoloured and brittle. Similarly, mouthwashes contain alcohol and other chemicals that can damage the aligners and make them uncomfortable to wear. They can also stain the aligners, making them more noticeable.

2. Scented soaps

Scented soaps can leave a residue on your aligners, affecting their clarity and taste. Stick to clear, unscented, liquid soaps.

3. Hot water

Using water that is too hot can warp the plastic of your aligners, affecting their fit and effectiveness. Always use lukewarm water for cleaning.

4. Toothpaste

Some kinds of toothpaste contains abrasives that can scratch the surface of your aligners, making them cloudy and more noticeable. While you can technically use gentle toothpaste, it may be best to avoid using it at all.

5. Baking soda

Baking soda is abrasive and can scratch your aligners, just like the little crystals found in some toothpaste. Avoid using it to clean your aligners.

Easiest way to keep your Invisalign clean

The easiest way to keep your Invisalign aligners clean is to establish cleaning as part of your routine. By making it a habit, you don’t forget or miss a wash. Here are some simple and effective habits that will boost the cleanliness of your aligners:

1. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water each time you remove them.
2. Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush at the same time as when you brush your teeth (get them their own toothbrush.)
3. Soak them in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or another approved cleaning solution once a day - this can be at the same time as your daily shower, for example.
4. Store them in their case when not in use to prevent contamination and damage.

More Invisalign cleaning tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your aligners stay clean and effective:

• Brush, floss and mouthwash before putting your aligners back in after meals. Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in after eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents food particles and sugars from being trapped against your teeth, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
• Never eat with your aligners in. Eating with your aligners in can damage them and cause food to get trapped between the aligners and your teeth. 
• Avoid drinking alcohol with Invisalign aligners in. Alcohol can stain your aligners and the sugars in alcoholic drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay. Stick to water while wearing your aligners.
• Avoid using abrasive materials to clean your aligners. As previously mentioned, using anything abrasive on your aligners can scratch and damage them, not only reducing the integrity of the aligners but making them more visible and unsightly.
• Don’t smoke. As well as being bad for you in general, smoking can stain your aligners and affect their transparency. It also introduces harmful chemicals into your mouth, impacting your overall oral health.
• Store them safely. When not in use, store your aligners in their protective case. This helps keep them clean and prevents damage.
• Book regular check-ups with your dentist. Regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy during your Invisalign treatment.

What stains Invisalign aligners?

Certain substances are more likely to stain your aligners. Here are a few to watch out for:

1. Mouthwash

Many mouthwashes contain dyes that can stain your aligners. Avoid using mouthwash while your aligners are in your mouth.

2. Sugary drinks

Sugary drinks like soda and sports drinks can lead to plaque buildup and staining. Always remove your aligners before consuming these kinds of beverages.

3. Tea and coffee

Tea and coffee are known to cause staining, on your teeth as well as your aligners. If you do drink these beverages, make sure to remove your aligners before drinking them, and rinse your mouth before putting them back in aftwards.

4. Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages, especially those with dark colours like red wine and beer, can stain your aligners. As we mentioned earlier, it’s best to stick to water while wearing your aligners.

How to clean Invisalign retainers

While aligners are used like braces to guide your teeth into new positions, retainers are used to keep teeth in their new positions following orthodontic treatment. While they are different products with different goals, and made from different materials, cleaning retainers is very similar to cleaning aligners. Remember:

• Clean them daily, when you brush your teeth.
• Don’t use abrasive materials.
• Soak them thoroughly on a regular basis.
• Rinse only in lukewarm water.
• Store them in their protective cases when not in use

Keeping things clean

As well as advising on how to clean your Invisalign aligners, Beech Lane Dental Care can provide support at all stages of your Invisalign journey, and give helpful advice on how to get the most from your course of treatment. Get in touch today to find out more.