Teens and adults alike opt for Invisalign instead of traditional braces for many reasons, including how easy they are to clean. You have a variety of options for cleaning your Invisalign retainers and trays, ranging from specially formulated solutions to your toothbrush and gentle toothpaste. Read on to learn about easy, at-home options for cleaning Invisalign trays and your Vivera retainer.
Options for Cleaning Invisalign Alignment Trays & Retainers
It is important to keep your Invisalign trays clean to keep them nearly invisible. However, you don’t necessarily need to invest in specialized cleaning agents or tools. Options for keeping your trays clean and clear include:
Hydrogen Peroxide and Water
You can soak your Invisalign retainer or trays in a bowl of one part lukewarm water and one part hydrogen peroxide for 20-30 minutes. Be sure to thoroughly rinse your trays before putting them back in your mouth.
Clear Liquid Soap and Water
A small amount of liquid soap mixed in lukewarm water can also be used to clean your Invisalign retainer or alignment trays. Avoid brightly colored soaps as the dyes can stain your trays. Thoroughly rinse the trays or retainer before putting them back in your mouth.
Baking Soda and Water
Just one tablespoon of baking soda mixed with ½ cup of lukewarm water creates a great cleaning solution for your Invisalign trays. Rinse before returning to your mouth.
White Vinegar and Water
To clean your Invisalign retainer or trays at home, you can mix one part white vinegar with three parts lukewarm water, and let your trays soak. Rinse thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water.
Toothpaste and Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Cleaning your alignment trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste is often sufficient because the trays are only worn for a few weeks. However, if you’ve completed the Invisalign treatment and are wearing a Vivera retainer, you may want to use a different cleaning technique, as brushing can create small scratches. Over time, these small scratches can make your retainer appear cloudy.
Cleaning Crystals, Foam, or Steraligner
Invisalign has specially formulated cleaning crystals, cleaning foams, and sterilizers you may purchase. Cleaning crystals are dissolved in water and effectively remove plaque from your trays and retainer. Foam is sprayed on the trays or retainer. A product called Steraligner cleaning solution also removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar.
Avoid Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays and Retainer With these Techniques
You should never use hot water on your Invisalign trays or retainer. The heat can warp your trays. Do not put your trays or retainer in the dishwasher or washing machine. You should never soak your trays or retainer in mouthwash, either as dyes can damage the plastic. Finally, avoid using toothpaste that has abrasive ingredients such as charcoal to clean your trays or retainer.
Remember to Keep Your Invisalign Tray or Retainer Cases Clean
It is important to keep your alignment trays or your retainer stored in a clean case when you’re not wearing them. You may use any of the same methods you use to clean your trays and retainer to clean your cases, aside from toothpaste. Instead of using a toothbrush and toothpaste, use an antibacterial soap to clean the case.
Learn More About Invisalign for Teens and Adults in Conover, NC
If you are interested in learning if Invisalign is right for you or your teen, book a consultation at Hass Family Orthodontics today by calling 828-464-5300. If you prefer, you may send us a message, and our friendly staff will respond shortly. Hass Family Orthodontics is a top-reviewed orthodontic practice for all ages located in Conover, NC convenient to Hickory, Newton, and Boone.