How To Clean Invisalign Aligners

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How To Clean Invisalign Aligners
Posted on 01/18/2018
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If you’re in the process of getting yourself a new smile with Invisalign, the last thing you want to hear when you finish with that last set of aligners is that you have a bad case of tooth decay. Unfortunately, without taking proper care of your aligners throughout your orthodontic treatment, that possibility could become reality. At Kattner Orthodontics, it’s our goal to make sure that you finish your Invisalign treatment with a smile that’s nothing less than perfect, which is why we’ve put together this helpful guide on how to keep your Invisalign aligners clean and your smile healthy.


Why Is It Necessary To Clean Invisalign Aligners?

Each set of aligners is custom made to slide over your teeth for a snug, comfortable fit. While the plastic being able to rest flush against your teeth gives Invisalign the advantage of being practically invisible, any food particles or harmful bacteria caught in that tiny space can lead to decay. By making cleaning your aligners a part of your normal oral hygiene routine, you can clear away all of that harmful bacteria and make sure that your new smile looks as good as it should.


While not as serious of a problem as decaying teeth, if not properly cleaned on a regular basis, your aligners can become discolored and stained, which will make your aligners not so invisible any more. Even though you will be switching out your aligners every week or two, not having to deal with a yellow looking smile is usually the option people prefer.


Guide To Keeping Your Aligners Clean

Cleaning your aligners adds no more than a few minutes to your normal routine of brushing, flossing, and rinsing. It’s crucial that you don’t take shortcuts, since a consistent and thorough cleaning is the only way you’re going to make sure that your new smile is healthy and perfect like you want it to be. Just follow the steps below to keep your Invisalign aligners clean:

Gently Brush Your Aligners With Your Toothbrush

Your aligners are almost like an extension of your teeth, and all they really need to stay clean is a simple brushing with your toothbrush. Put a small amount of toothpaste on your brush just as if you were brushing your teeth, and give the aligner a gentle brushing, making sure you get the entire appliance inside and out.  Try not to brush too hard, since aggressive brushing actually leaves small scratches on the plastic. Finish things off by rinsing the aligners off under some cool water and you’ll have a perfectly clean aligner.


Soak Your Aligners With Denture Cleaner

Another way that you can clean your aligners is by using a cleansing solution like denture cleaner, which is designed to kill the bacteria that can build up on your appliance. There are many different types of cleaners available, so if you’re not sure which one to go with, just reach out to our team here at Kattner Orthodontics and we’ll be happy to give you a recommendation. Letting your aligners soak in the solution for a few minutes should be more than enough for a thorough clean.


Always Brush & Floss Your Teeth

Just as important as cleaning your aligners is making sure that your teeth are clean as well. Any bacteria that is caught on your teeth will have the same effect as if it was stuck on your aligner, leading to tooth decay just as quickly. Make sure that you brush your teeth and floss to remove all food particles from your last meal before putting your aligners back on.


Contact Us For More Information!

If you have any questions about how to keep your Invisalign aligners clean or the risk of tooth decay during orthodontic treatment, just contact us at Kattner Orthodontics. A member of our staff will connect with you, and get you all of the information you need. If you would like more information about how you can get started with Invisalign and get the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, just schedule an appointment with us for a consultation. Proudly serving Waukegan, Gurnee, and the surrounding areas with professional orthodontic care, Dr. Kattner and our entire team here at Kattner Orthodontics look forward to helping you achieve a more radiant, healthy smile.