How to Effectively Disinfect Invisalign

Keeping your Invisalign clean is key to maintaining your oral health and prolonging the life of your aligners. Effectively disinfecting Invisalign includes:

• Removing the aligners
• Rinsing with warm water
• Using a proper cleaning solution
• Gently brushing the trays
• Rinsing the trays and letting them air dry

While basic cleaning methods may remove surface impurities, proper disinfection is essential to prevent harmful bacteria and odours. If you’re unsure of the steps or the appropriate cleaning solution, your dentist is the person to ask.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner designed to straighten teeth discreetly. Made from BPA-free plastic, these removable trays are custom-fitted to your teeth and replaced periodically throughout your treatment. Unlike braces, Invisalign prioritizes comfort and aesthetics, making it a popular choice for straightening teeth among teens and adults. 

However, because the aligners are worn for up to 22 hours a day, food particles, bacteria, and plaque can build up, which makes proper cleaning and disinfection non-negotiable for maintaining your health and the effectiveness of the aligners. 

The Importance of Disinfecting Invisalign 

Your mouth is home to approximately 700 types of microbes, good and bad. While saliva naturally acts as a cleaning agent, Invisalign trays trap moisture and restrict airflow in your mouth, creating an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria. 

Failing to disinfect your aligners regularly can lead to several problems, including:

• Bad breath
• Stained or discoloured aligners
• Increased risk of gum disease or cavities
• Development of fungal infections like oral thrush

Properly disinfecting Invisalign helps to keep harmful microorganisms at bay and safeguard your treatment’s success. 

Why Regular Cleaning Isn’t Enough 

Rinsing your Invisalign or brushing them with water may seem sufficient, but it doesn’t address invisible germs and bacteria that can harm your dental health. Even daily brushing, while helpful, isn’t as good as brushing with an effective cleaning product.

Disinfection goes beyond surface cleaning by eliminating pathogens and ensuring your aligners are safe to wear. Simple cleaning removes visible debris, but disinfection allows you to address the less obvious—but just as critical—aspects of maintaining oral hygiene. 

A Step-By-Step Guide to Effective Disinfection Methods 

Learn how to properly disinfect your Invisalign trays with this easy-to-follow guide. 

Remove the Aligners

It may seem obvious, but always start by removing your aligners. Never attempt to clean or disinfect them while still in your mouth. This facilitates easy handling and allows you to clean the entire aligner adequately. 

Rinse with Warm Water 

Rinse your aligners thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove any saliva, food particles, or debris that may have accumulated. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. 

Use a Proper Cleaning Solution 

• Cleaning crystals: Invisalign-brand cleaning crystals are formulated specifically to clean aligners. Dissolve them in a cup of water and submerge your trays for at least 15 minutes.
• Hydrogen peroxide mix: Create a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Submerge your trays for 15–20 minutes, then rinse well.
• Special cleaning devices: Ultrasonic cleaners use sound waves and water to thoroughly disinfect aligners without damaging them.

Gently Brush the Trays 

After soaking, gently scrub your aligners with a soft-bristled, clean toothbrush. This will dislodge stubborn particles while preventing scratches. Avoid hard-bristled brushes, as they can damage the aligner. 

Rinse Thoroughly & Air-Dry 

After cleaning, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water to remove any residual cleaning solution. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel or allow them to air-dry fully before reinserting. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Here are the most common errors people make when cleaning or disinfecting their Invisalign trays and how to avoid them:

• Using hot water: Hot water can warp the plastic aligners, making them ineffective for your treatment. Always stick to lukewarm water.
• Cleaning too aggressively: Brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush or using abrasive toothpaste can scratch the aligners, creating spots for bacterial buildup.
• Skipping regular disinfection: Cleaning aligners without disinfection leaves invisible bacteria and fungi intact, which might cause oral infections. You should be cleaning them nightly.
• Eating or drinking with aligners on: This can leave food debris in the aligners or stain them. Always remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Maintaining Long-Term Hygiene & Invisalign Care 

Proper maintenance of your Invisalign routine doesn’t stop at disinfecting them. Here are tips for prioritizing consistent hygiene throughout your treatment:

• Clean aligners daily: Make it a habit to clean and disinfect them every morning and evening to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Brush and floss teeth regularly: Clean teeth reduce the amount of food residue trapped inside the aligners.
• Store aligners safely: When not in use, store your aligners in the provided case, preventing exposure to germs and damage.
• Replace aligners as directed: For optimal hygiene and treatment progress, follow your dentist’s schedule for switching to new aligners.

Put Your Best Smile Forward 

Properly disinfecting and maintaining your Invisalign trays is critical in keeping your smile healthy and on track. Neglecting small steps can lead to larger dental issues, but adopting good habits helps promote successful treatment. 

With the proper cleaning techniques, the right products, and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy a smooth Invisalign experience while protecting your oral health. Contact our team at McKenzie Towne Family Dental if you’d like to learn more about how Invisalign can help your smile or if you have questions about your aligners.