Invisalign, the most well-known brand of clear aligners, provides an easier, safer, and virtually invisible way to correct orthodontic issues and improve the appearance of your smile. Many people prefer these clear aligners over traditional metal braces.
However, the Invisalign aligners need to be cleaned daily to prevent plaque and bacteria build-up.
5 Effective Ways to Clean Invisalign at Home
Here are the five ways to clean your Invisalign aligners at home:
- Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
One of the easiest ways to clean your Invisalign aligners at home is by using dye-free toothpaste and a toothbrush. But it would be best for you if you were careful. Ensure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive or non-whitening toothpaste.
Whitening toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients that can scratch your aligners’ surface, making cleaning Invisalign ineffective as harmful bacteria can reside there.
- Cleaning Crystals
Cleaning Invisalign using cleaning crystals also helps remove the build-up effectively. Take a pack of cleaning crystals and stir them in lukewarm water until they dissolve completely. Now, soak your aligners in the solution for at least 15 minutes.
The crystals will get the job done without scratching the surface of your Invisalign aligners. It is better to take out your aligners and brush them before rinsing them.
- Cleaning Tablets
According to a study, using effervescent tablets is the best way to clean your aligners. Cleaning tablets are easily available at your local drugstore.
To make a cleaning solution, take a single cleaning tablet and dissolve it in a cup of lukewarm water. Now, soak your Invisalign aligners in the cleaning solution for 15 to 20 minutes, and finally, rinse your aligners with water.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
While you can use hydrogen peroxide for cleaning Invisalign, you have to be extra careful with this one. A higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide can damage your aligners. However, when mixed with lukewarm water in a low concentration, hydrogen peroxide can help get rid of bacteria and build-up.
Soak your aligners in the hydrogen peroxide and water mixture for 15 to 20 minutes, then brush them and rinse them off with cool water.
- White Vinegar
White vinegar dissolved in distilled water can do wonders when cleaning Invisalign. It deodorises the aligners and removes the build-up as well. It is better to avoid using any other vinegar, as it can stain your aligners.
To make the solution, take white vinegar and distilled water in a 1:3 ratio and soak your aligners in the solution for at least 15 to 20 minutes. It will loosen up plaque, making it easier to brush it away.
It doesn’t matter which cleaning solution you use; it’s important to brush your Invisalign aligners after soaking to remove any lingering cleaning residue. It’s also recommended to get a soft-bristled brush separately for cleaning your aligners.
Invisalign Treatment in Pennant Hills, NSW
Hills Dental Design gives you a wide range of quality dental services, including Invisalign treatment in Pennant Hills, NSW, Australia. Our team of highly experienced dental experts can correct your orthodontic issues using Invisalign.
If you need help cleaning Invisalign, our experts will be happy to assist you. Contact our experienced dentists in Pennant Hills today for more information on properly caring for your Invisalign.