If you’re in the middle of an Invisalign® treatment, we applaud you for taking a step toward a healthier, more confident smile. One of the best things about Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, which means you don’t need to deal with any food restrictions and you can more easily keep your teeth clean. That being said, you do have to do your part in keeping those aligners clean. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your Invisalign clear aligners.
Frequent Rinsing
You should be rinsing your Invisalign aligners every time you remove them during the day. That means when you take them out to brush your teeth or to eat, give them a quick rinse to wash away any saliva or bacteria that has built up on them. You should use lukewarm water when you’re rinsing. Water that’s too cold or too hot can actually change the aligners’ shape!
Cleaning Your Aligners
Before you put your aligners back in, you should clean them by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You don’t want to use a brush that’s too abrasive since that might scuff up the plastic material. You should also use an unscented, clear soap to clean away the bacteria. Toothpaste is too abrasive for the aligners and will leave the trays looking scratched or cloudy.
Soaking
It’s a good idea to soak your aligners every few days in a cleaning solution specifically designed for them. Invisalign sells its own cleaning products, and there are other brands that sell similar items specifically for clear aligner trays. You can also make your own solution with a mixture of half water and half hydrogen peroxide. Another option is to dissolve one tablespoon of baking soda in a half cup of water. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the aligners after soaking. This step helps keep the trays looking fresh and clean!
Invisalign Clear Aligners in Long Island City, NY
Do you need more Invisalign tips? Or are you looking for more general advice on keeping your teeth in tip-top shape? Queensboro Plaza Dental Care has you covered! At our dental office in Long Island City, we provide Invisalign clear aligner therapy along with many other preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments. Call or email us today to set up your next appointment with us!
