How to Clean Invisalign Aligners

Everyone wants a bright, beautiful smile, and if you’re using Invisalign aligners to achieve this, keeping them clean and clear is vital. Over time, however, your aligners may become stained or discolored, particularly if not cared for properly. Ola Fresh is here to provide a simple guide to ensure your aligners remain spotless.

Daily Care and Cleaning Routine

Maintaining the clarity and hygiene of your Invisalign aligners requires a daily ritual that is both simple and effective. Let’s delve into the steps to ensure your aligners stay as pristine as day one.

1: Rinse

Every time you remove your aligners, it’s important to rinse them off. This will help to remove the saliva and plaque which can cause discoloration.

2: Brush

After rinsing, gently brush the aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush. This will help in removing any lingering particles or plaque. However, avoid using toothpaste, as many toothpaste formulas can be abrasive and scratch your aligners, making them more susceptible to staining.

3: Soak

This is a game-changer. Soaking your aligners in a dedicated cleaning solution for 15 minutes daily can keep them fresh and disinfected. Ola Fresh offers a specialized aligner cleaning solution that is designed to keep your Invisalign trays clear and clean without causing damage.

4: Store

When not in use, always store your aligners in their protective case. This not only keeps them safe from potential damage but also prevents them from gathering dust and bacteria.

Products and Cleaning Methods to Avoid

Certain products and cleaning methods can be detrimental to the clarity and longevity of your Invisalign aligners:

Toothpaste: Many toothpaste varieties are abrasive and can create micro-scratches on the surface of the aligners. Over time, these scratches can trap bacteria and lead to yellowing.

Colored Soaps: While you might think using soap is a good way to clean your aligners, colored or scented soaps can leave residue which can lead to discoloration.

Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes: These can dry out and discolor the plastic material of your aligners.

Hot Water: Never use hot water to clean or soak your aligners, as it can warp their shape, rendering them ineffective.

How to Prevent Staining

Now that we’ve gone over how to clean yellow Invisalign aligners, it’s important to remember that prevention is always better than a cure. To avoid yellowing in the first place:

Avoid eating and drinking anything other than water while wearing your aligners. Red wine, tea, coffee, and fruits such as berries can be particularly staining to your aligners.

Do not smoke. Smoking with your aligners in can cause them to become yellow or brown.

Rinse your mouth after eating. If you’ve consumed anything that might stain, rinse your mouth thoroughly before re-inserting your aligners.

Keep Up With Regular Oral Hygiene

Your oral hygiene doesn’t just affect your teeth—it also impacts the cleanliness of your aligners. Brushing and flossing after meals allows you to prevent food particles from getting trapped between your aligners and teeth. Not only does this help prevent cavities, but it also reduces the risk of your aligners turning yellow.

Invisalign aligners are a fantastic way to straighten your teeth discreetly, but their care is crucial for optimal results. Adopting a routine, being mindful of staining foods and drinks, and maintaining good oral hygiene are key. And remember, for the best results in cleaning your aligners, Ola Fresh dental appliance cleanser can be a great addition to your daily routine. Here’s to your brighter, healthier smile!