How to Take Care of Your Invisalign Aligners from Timber Dental Care
Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment by offering a discreet, comfortable, and removable alternative to traditional braces. While Invisalign aligners are convenient and nearly invisible, they do require proper care to remain effective and hygienic throughout your treatment. At Timber Dental Care, we want you to get the best results from your Invisalign journey—and that starts with learning how to take care of your aligners.
Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your Invisalign aligners clean, clear, and in great condition.
Why Invisalign Care Matters
Invisalign aligners are made from a medical-grade thermoplastic material designed to gently shift your teeth into alignment. Since these aligners are worn for 20 to 22 hours per day, they are in close contact with your teeth and gums for the majority of the day.
Without proper care, Invisalign trays can become discolored, develop odors, or even harbor bacteria. Poor aligner hygiene can also lead to tooth decay, gum irritation, or staining of your aligners, undermining both your dental health and treatment results.
Daily Invisalign Care Tips
1. Clean Your Aligners Morning and Night
Just like brushing your teeth twice a day, cleaning your aligners should be part of your morning and nighttime routine. Gently brush your trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Avoid using toothpaste, as many contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch the aligners and make them more noticeable.
2. Rinse After Every Removal
Every time you remove your aligners—whether to eat, drink, or brush your teeth—rinse them under lukewarm water. This helps wash away saliva, bacteria, and food particles that can build up on the trays.
3. Soak Your Aligners Daily
Soaking your aligners once a day helps keep them fresh and free of stubborn buildup. Use Invisalign’s official cleaning crystals or a denture cleaner to soak your trays for 15–20 minutes. After soaking, brush and rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
What to Avoid
To keep your Invisalign aligners in top shape, here are a few things to steer clear of:
– Hot Water
Never rinse or soak your aligners in hot water. High temperatures can warp the plastic, making the aligners less effective—or even unusable.
– Colored or Scented Soaps
Some soaps can leave behind residue or tint your aligners, making them more visible when worn. Stick to clear, mild, fragrance-free soap when cleaning.
– Eating or Drinking with Aligners In
Aside from water, do not eat or drink anything while wearing your aligners. Foods and colored beverages can stain or damage the trays, and chewing while wearing them can lead to cracks or warping.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Your Invisalign aligners can only work effectively if your teeth and gums are healthy. Practicing good oral hygiene is just as important as taking care of the aligners themselves.
– Brush and Floss After Every Meal
Before putting your aligners back in after eating, brush and floss to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. If brushing isn’t possible, rinse your mouth and the aligners with water until you can properly clean them.
– Use Mouthwash as Needed
A gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and fresh during treatment. However, don’t use mouthwash to soak your aligners—it could discolor or damage them.
Proper Storage
When you’re not wearing your aligners, keep them in their protective Invisalign case. Never leave them out in the open, as they can collect bacteria or become lost or damaged. Dogs and small children are particularly attracted to the plastic material, so be mindful of where you place them!
What to Do If Your Aligners Are Lost or Damaged
If you lose or break an aligner, don’t panic—but do call Timber Dental Care right away. Depending on where you are in your treatment cycle, we may advise you to move forward to the next set or wear the previous set until a replacement can be ordered. It’s important not to skip aligners or make adjustments without professional guidance.
Keep Your Appointment
Even though Invisalign is low-maintenance compared to traditional braces, regular check-ins with your dentist are essential. These appointments allow us to monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure that your treatment stays on track.
At Timber Dental Care, we’re here to support you throughout every stage of your Invisalign journey. If you ever have questions or concerns about your aligners, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your Invisalign aligners isn’t difficult—but it does require consistency. Clean them daily, avoid harmful habits, maintain strong oral hygiene, and stay in touch with your dental provider. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure that your journey to a straighter, healthier smile is smooth and successful.
Ready to learn more about Invisalign or schedule your consultation? Contact Timber Dental Care today to start your path toward a confident, beautifully aligned smile.
