Invisalign offers products to align teeth with removable aligners, similar to an orthodontic appliance, and retainers, which can straighten teeth. An essential aspect of the process is to ensure that both aligners and teeth are as clean as possible. Invisalign recommends using its own specific cleaning system. However, it is expensive and only available in the United States. Fortunately, there are other easier ways to take care of your Invisalign. Read on to learn more.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Brush the Aligners
Step 1. Remove the Invisalign from the teeth
Remove it from your mouth following the instructions given by your dentist. Unlike the metal orthodontic appliance, which must be cleaned in the mouth, Invisalign must be cleaned outside the mouth.
Step 2. Brush the aligners
Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste, just like you do when brushing your teeth. Brush gently to remove food particles on both sides of the aligners. Make sure you do a thorough cleaning.
Step 3. Rinse the aligners
Place the device under a steady stream of warm water to remove all traces of toothpaste and mouthwash. Then let it dry on a clean cloth before putting it back on your teeth.
- Never rinse the Invisalign with hot water, as it could melt the aligners and damage them permanently.
- Some dentists advise against using toothpaste, as it often contains abrasive ingredients that leave scratches on the device. Over time, the aligners become more visible. If this is a problem, just brush them with water or a mild dish detergent.
Step 4. Use your toothbrush and floss
When you take the Invisalign out of your mouth to clean it, it's also time to brush your teeth. Also use dental floss to prevent food particles and bacteria from hiding in your teeth. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy also helps keep Invisalign just as clean.
Step 5. Insert the aligners
When the appliance has dried, you can put it back in your mouth as directed by the dentist.
Method 2 of 3: Using an Ultrasonic Bath
Step 1. Purchase an ultrasonic cleaner
Sonic or ultrasonic cleaning systems work in combination with soluble crystals. These create a cleaning solution that shakes the aligners allowing you to remove microorganisms and kill bacteria that normal brushing cannot eliminate.
Step 2. Fill the tray provided with hot water
Make sure you use the exact amount indicated by the instructions enclosed with the product.
Step 3. Insert the right amount of crystals (or tablets) into hot water
You may need to measure them if they are not packaged in pre-dispensed bags or ready-to-dissolve tablets.
Step 4. Soak the Invisalign for 15 minutes
Don't forget to brush and floss your teeth at this point. Aligners are only as clean as your teeth.
Step 5. After the time has elapsed, remove the aligners from the tray and rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water
The cleaning solutions are designed for the device, not for your mouth. In addition, the rinsing action helps reduce the risk of an allergic reaction to some ingredients of the detergent.
Finally wash your hands as well as the cleaning tool
Step 6. Put the Invisalign back in your mouth
Once dried, put the device back in your mouth.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Home Dive System
Step 1. To remove bacteria, try a hydrogen peroxide solution
Dilute it with warm water in a 1: 1 ratio. Soak the aligners for at least 30 minutes, then rinse them thoroughly with warm water.
Keep in mind that hydrogen peroxide does not remove accumulated plaque
Step 2. Eliminate tartar and kill microorganisms with a vinegar solution
Mix equal parts of the distilled white vinegar and hot water, then immerse the Invisalign in the solution. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes. Then, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and rinse it off with warm water.
The vinegar smell disappears soon, don't worry
Step 3. Remember to always clean your teeth with a toothbrush and dental floss before reinserting the Invisalign
Whichever soaking technique you use, take advantage of the pause to thoroughly clean your teeth before putting the aligners back into your mouth.
Advice
- Make sure you visit your dentist regularly if you want to really take care of your teeth; talk to your doctor about any problems that may arise with cleaning your device. Also tell him about any odors coming from the mouth and if you have trouble maintaining your normal oral hygiene routine.
- If you don't have a toothbrush and toothpaste available when you take off the aligners, rinse your mouth with water after eating and put the Invisalign under a stream of warm running water.
- Always keep a case with a small folding toothbrush, toothpaste and tissues with you in case you need to brush your teeth and Invisalign away from home.
Warnings
- Do not use hot water to clean the appliance. Heat can deform the plastic and damage or destroy the product.
- Always keep the Invisalign in its specific case. If you put the aligners in a napkin or other similar container you risk losing them or accidentally throwing them away.
