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Cleaning Invisalign aligners properly and regularly is one of the most important parts of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. It’s important to keep your Invisalign in Park Slope free from plaque, food particles and other materials that can get stuck in the tiny grooves and crevices.
Cleaning Invisalign Aligners
Taking care of your aligners will ensure that they last as long as possible and maintain their power. Here are seven important cleaning tips to keep in mind when cleaning Invisalign aligners:
#1 – Brush the aligners with a soft toothbrush and cleaning solution.
To remove plaque and debris, brush the aligners gently with a soft toothbrush and mild toothpaste or mild antibacterial soap. It’s important to never use abrasive cleaning solutions, as they can damage the aligners. Plus, cleaning Invisalign aligners with hard bristles could scratch them, making cleaning less effective.
#2 – Rinse the aligners with warm water solution.
Before bedtime and in the morning, you can rinse the aligners with a warm water solution for deeper cleaning. This will remove any remaining particles and cleaning solution residue. You can use vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or cleaning crystals diluted in warm water.
Do this for about two minutes and then rinse with fresh water or brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can soak them while brushing your teeth to save time and create a routine.
#3 – Create a cleaning schedule and habit.
Once you know the cleaning method that works best for you, create a schedule and make it a daily habit. Cleaning Invisalign aligners after eating is important for removing any food particles and cleaning solution. Cleaning aligners twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime, can help keep them clean and germ-free.
#4 – Do not eat while wearing aligners.
Invisalign cleaning becomes much harder if you eat or drink while wearing aligners. Eating or drinking while wearing aligners can cause food particles and other debris to get stuck in the aligners, which can be difficult to remove. It’s best to take out your aligners before eating and drinking and brush them after cleaning.
#5 – Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly each day.
Cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly each day is essential for cleaning Invisalign aligners. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day will help remove plaque and other debris that can get stuck in the aligners.
When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that’s mild and non-abrasive. When flossing, make sure to go through in between each tooth to cleaning any plaque or food particles. This will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and not leave bacteria or food particles before you put your aligners back in.
#6 – Do not use abrasive materials or cleaning solutions.
When cleaning Invisalign aligners, it’s important to never use abrasive materials or cleaning solutions. Abrasive cleaning materials or solutions such as harsh soaps, denture cleaner, or mouthwash can cause the aligners to become discolored, scratched, or pitted.
#7 – Store your aligners properly.
When not in use, store your aligners in the case that you received with them. This will help keep them safe from damage and ensure that they stay clean. Use your Invisalign case or any closed container to keep the aligners safe when not in use.
Start Your Invisalign Treatment in Brooklyn
If you haven’t started your Invisalign journey yet, contact Scantlebury Orthodontics in Brooklyn provides free consultation to know if Invisalign is right for you. Dr. Sophia Scantlebury is an experienced orthodontist and dental surgeon who has worked with a lot of Invisalign patients.
Scantlebury Orthodontics provides top-quality custom treatment with Invisalign. With our state-of-the-art facilities, you can begin your treatment with confidence. We also provide a selection of dental braces if you decide that Invisalign is not right for you.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and get started on your journey towards a perfect smile. Our team looks forward to working with you!