The Invisalign system is an alternative to traditional metal and wire braces that allows patients to correct their smiles by wearing aligners and retainers that (as the name implies) are virtually invisible.
The fact that Invisalign retainers and trays are discreet may be the most common reason patients choose this treatment option. However, it’s also worth noting that maintaining Invisalign trays and retainers is fairly easy.
Generally, Invisalign upkeep consists of cleaning retainers and trays. Keep reading to learn how to do so properly.
Use Official Cleaning Products to Clean Invisalign Retainers & Trays
Invisalign treatment offers many benefits. Relatively easy maintenance is just one of them.
You may wish to purchase the official Invisalign cleaning system when you begin Invisalign treatment. The system consists of a cleaning tub and several packets of cleaning crystals. To clean your Invisalign retainers or trays with the system, follow these steps:
- Remove your Invisalign retainer or trays before brushing your teeth
- Use tap water to gently rinse the retainer or trays
- Place the retainer or trays in the cleaning tub and submerge them in warm water
- Pour in the cleaning crystals from one packet
- Shake the tub gently to avoid spilling for about 20 seconds, or until all the crystals appear to be dissolved
- Soak the retainer and trays in the cleaning tub for a minimum of 15 minutes
- Gently shake the cleaning tub again for another 20 seconds
- Remove the retainer and trays
- Rinse the retainer and trays under warm water again
- Rinse the tub
Removing and cleaning your Invisalign retainer and trays every time you brush your teeth allows you to thoroughly remove food and bacteria. Doing so guards against cavities, gum disease, and other such oral health issues.
Cleaning Invisalign Retainers & Trays With Denture Cleaning Products
If you don’t have Invisalign’s official cleaning products on hand, you can also clean your retainer and trays with a denture cleaning product. The process involves following the same steps from the above section of this guide. You may want to ask your dentist to recommend an effective denture cleaner for this purpose.
In a pinch, you can create a solution of one part peroxide, one part water. Consider this option if you need to clean your Invisalign retainer or aligners now and only have access to household products.
Cleaning Invisalign Retainers & Trays: Ask Your Dentist for More Information
Invisalign retainers and trays require fairly minimal upkeep. Ensuring your trays and/or retainers stay clean throughout treatment is neither particularly difficult nor time-consuming.
Be aware, your dentist might offer more guidance for cleaning your Invisalign products beyond what this overview touches on. Be sure to follow their advice, and ask them any additional questions you may have about cleaning the Invisalign system. They’ll gladly discuss the topic with you in greater detail.
Learn More About Invisalign in New York, NY
At Smiles on the Upper Westside, our team can help determine if you’re a candidate for Invisalign treatment, and we can explain how to thoroughly clean your Invisalign retainers and trays. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 212-222-5225 to request an appointment.