5 Tips to Keep Your Invisalign Trays Clean

Invisalign® trays can correct bite problems and straighten your teeth quickly and discreetly. And unlike many orthodontic appliances, they’re removable. For these reasons, Invisalign tray aligners are one of the most popular alternatives to traditional orthodontics, like braces.

Since Invisalign trays are clear and removable, they do require a little extra care to keep them clean. So, our team of orthodontic experts at Duval Orthodontics, located in Warner Robins and Albany, Georgia, shares these five tips to help you keep your Invisalign trays crystal clear.

1. Don’t eat with your Invisalign trays in

Part of the reason Invisalign trays are so popular is that you can remove them at any time. And one of those times is before you eat. Invisalign trays aren’t meant for chewing. They’re designed to correct your bite and straighten your smile.

Eating with them can not only damage the trays but also stain them. Darker foods like berries and certain sauces have staining particles that can attach to your Invisalign trays. The same is true about stain-causing drinks such as coffee.

2. Brush your trays

One of the best ways to keep your Invisalign trays clean is to brush them every day. Brushing your tray aligners daily can help keep them crystal clear. It can also prevent smelly bacteria from building up inside your aligners.

Make sure to use a non-staining toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush your retainers gently with a soft toothbrush to prevent scratches or types of damage.

3. Avoid cleaning your Invisalign trays with colored toothpaste or soap

Another pro tip to keep your Invisalign trays clean is to avoid using colored toothpaste to clean them. Using colored toothpaste can result in residue buildup on your trays. And the residue can cause a noticeable discoloration, so your Invisalign trays won’t be so invisible anymore.

You should also avoid cleaning your Invisalign trays with soap. Soap can leave residue on your Invisalign trays. Not only does this cause discoloration, but if you put them back in, it can leave a bad, soapy taste in your mouth. 

4. Soaking

Soaking your Invisalign trays in the right cleaning solution helps prevent bacteria and tartar from building up. Tartar leaves a white film on your trays, making them appear cloudy. 

Brushing alone isn’t always enough to remove tartar from Invisalign trays. Soaking, on the other hand, is an effective way to get rid of tartar buildup. 

When soaking your trays, only use a cleaning solution that’s meant for Invisalign or other retainers. Mouthwash can tint your trays since it usually has added colors, while harsh chemicals can damage or even warp them.

5. Store your Invisalign trays properly

When you remove your trays, you should never put them anywhere but their case. Putting them down on a table, for example, increases the odds of them falling to the floor or another dirty surface. And if you have pets, they might decide to use your trays as a chew toy.

Learn more about caring for Invisalign trays

There are plenty of ways you can keep your Invisalign trays clean and free of damage. To learn more about how to care for your Invisalign trays, schedule a consultation with Dr. J.A. Duval by phone, or book your appointment online.