When you have Invisalign ® aligners, it’s not always as simple as placing it in your mouth. It is crucial that you are properly taking care of your aligners. This assures the best results, while avoiding costly replacement retainers. There are only a few things to keep in mind when taking care of your Invisalign ® aligners, when you make the following a part of your daily habits it will make your experience with Invisalign ® truly a breeze.
Rinse every time – You want to make sure you rinse the retainer under lukewarm water that isn’t too hot or too cold. The reason for the constant rinsing is that dry saliva and plaque creates a breeding ground for foul-smelling bacteria.
Regularly soak your aligners – To help keep your trays clear and sanitized, it is best to soak your aligners. You can use denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, or the official Invisalign ® cleaning crystals for best optimal results.
Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners - Proper oral hygiene is key when you are maintaining healthy teeth while avoiding cavities and tooth decay. It is vital that you brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If you don’t do this, then you are trapping harmful particles between your teeth and aligner, increasing your risk for future dental issues.
Use clear, anti-bacterial soft soap – A clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to aid in keeping your aligners clear, fresh, and harmful bacteria free.
Brush carefully – It is important to brush your aligners gently. When you brush vigorously, it can scratch your aligners and possibly leave visible etchings.