If you’re using Invisalign aligners or planning to, one of the most important parts of your journey is maintenance. Invisalign offers a nearly invisible, comfortable, and removable alternative to traditional braces, but it only works as well as you care for it.
So, how do you clean Invisalign aligners properly? How do you keep them clear, odour-free, and hygienic throughout your treatment?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean and care for your Invisalign aligners, including daily routines, do’s and don’ts, best practices, and what to avoid—so you can get the best results from your treatment.
Why Proper Invisalign Care Matters
When worn for 20–22 hours daily, aligners are constantly exposed to bacteria, saliva, and food residue. If not cleaned correctly, they can:
- Become cloudy or stained
- Develop unpleasant odors
- Accumulate bacteria, leading to plaque buildup or oral infections
- Disrupt your treatment and slow progress
Remember, Invisalign aligners are designed to be invisible—neglecting them defeats the purpose and compromises oral health.
How to Clean And Care for Your Invisalign Aligners: Step-by-Step
To get the most out of your aligners, commit to this daily care routine:
1. Rinse Immediately After Removal
Each time you remove your aligners—whether to eat, drink, or brush—rinse them under lukewarm water. This helps wash off saliva and prevent buildup.
Avoid hot water—it can warp the trays and ruin the fit.
2. Brush Gently With Clear Soap
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented liquid soap to brush your aligners gently, inside and out. Avoid colored soaps or abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch the plastic or leave residue.
Steps:
- Use lukewarm (not hot) water
- Add a drop of mild soap
- Brush in circular motions
- Rinse thoroughly before wearing
3. Soak Daily for Deep Cleaning
Soaking your trays daily helps remove deeper bacteria, plaque, and odor. Use:
- Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
- Retainer cleaning tablets
- A homemade vinegar + lukewarm water solution (50:50)
Soak for 15–20 minutes once a day. Always brush and rinse them after soaking.
How to Clean Stained Invisalign Aligners
Despite your best efforts, aligners can still stain—especially if exposed to colored drinks or not cleaned properly. If that happens:
- Soak in Invisalign crystals or retainer cleaner
- Use a soft brush to scrub gently
- Never use bleach or harsh chemicals
If stains don’t come out, contact your provider. You might be able to replace the trays or receive additional tips for better maintenance.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Invisalign Care
DO:
- Clean aligners twice daily
- Rinse them before and after use
- Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting trays
- Store aligners in their case when not in use
- Soak aligners daily
- Travel with a cleaning kit
DON’T:
- Use hot water (it warps plastic)
- Eat or drink (except water) with aligners in
- Use toothpaste or colored mouthwash to clean aligners
- Wrap them in tissue (easy to lose or damage)
- Skip brushing your teeth before wearing trays
How to Keep Your Invisalign Aligners Odor-Free
If your aligners smell, it’s likely due to bacteria or food trapped between your teeth and the trays. Here’s how to prevent that:
- Brush and floss after every meal
- Clean your aligners thoroughly at night and in the morning
- Never store aligners wet—always dry them first
- Clean your aligner case regularly
Tips for Caring for Your Invisalign Case
Your aligner case is just as important. Keep it clean by:
- Washing it with warm water and mild soap daily
- Drying it thoroughly before use
- Avoiding high heat or sunlight (especially if traveling)
- Keeping a spare case handy for emergencies
Invisalign Care While Traveling
Don’t let travel interrupt your routine. Here’s what to pack:
- Portable toothbrush + toothpaste
- Retainer or Invisalign cleaning tablets
- Mild soap
- Compact cleaning case
- Bottled water (for brushing and rinsing)
- Backup aligners (if you’re on a long trip)
Bonus tip: Always carry your aligners in hand luggage when flying.
How to Clean & Care for Your Invisalign Aligners with Busy Schedules
Short on time? Here’s a quick version of your daily care:
- Rinse with water immediately after removal
- Gently brush with soap and rinse once a day
- Soak while showering or doing something else
- Keep a small cleaning kit in your bag for convenience
Consistency matters more than perfection.
Your Effort Reflects in Your Results
Understanding how to clean and care for your Invisalign aligners is vital to your treatment journey. Neglecting basic hygiene could lead to poor results, bad breath, and additional dental issues.
Keeping your trays clean doesn’t have to be complicated—just intentional.
Looking for Expert Invisalign Provider in Nigeria?
Luxe Dental, located at 46, Isaac John Street, Ikeja GRA, is one of the leading Invisalign-certified clinics in Lagos. With cutting-edge technology, a team of trained professionals, flexible payment plans, and personalized care, Luxe Dental is committed to helping you achieve a confident, healthy smile.
Start your Invisalign journey the right way—book a consultation with Luxe Dental today.
