6 Tips for Keeping Your Invisalign Aligners Clean
Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic and are almost invisible -- unless you allow them to become stained! Use these six top tips to keep your Invisalign aligners clean so no-one can tell you're wearing them.
1. Brush Your Aligners Twice a Day
Just like your own teeth, Invisalign aligners need to be cleaned daily to remove particles of food and plaque. Every morning and evening, brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and clean water to prevent stains from building up. Inspect them carefully to check that there are no traces of food or plaque lurking in the crevices before you put the aligners back in your mouth.
2. Use Cold Water
Water that is too hot can cause your aligners to soften and deform, resulting in an extra trip to the dentist to get them replaced. Use cold water when brushing your aligners to keep them safe.
3. Don't Use Toothpaste
Toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients that are great for scrubbing stains from teeth, but not so great for cleaning plastic aligners. Toothpaste can cause aligners to turn yellow, which isn't such an attractive look. Instead of toothpaste, use a small amount of mild soap or detergent to clean your aligners. Rinse them well before you put them back in your mouth.
4. Store Your Aligners Safely
Leaving your aligners sitting on the bathroom counter can allow bacteria to multiply. When you remove your aligners, rinse them with clean water to remove traces of saliva and then store them in a sealed container until you are ready to reinsert them.
5. Soak Your Aligners to Remove Stains
If your aligners begin to look discolored, try soaking them in a cleansing solution from your dentist to restore their original clarity. Prevent future stains by steering clear of richly colored foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea and red wine, or take your aligners out before you indulge in these tasty treats. Don't forget to reinsert them afterwards, so they can continue to work on straightening your teeth.
6. Always Place Aligners on Clean Teeth
If you don't clean your teeth before you insert your aligners, you sandwich a layer of bacteria between the plastic and your tooth, which can raise the risk of tooth decay. Whether you took out your aligners to eat, play sports or clean them, always remember to brush your teeth before you put them back in your mouth.
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