Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

How to Care for Your Invisalign® Aligners

How to Care for Your Invisalign® Aligners

It’s no secret that Invisalign® makes teeth straightening easier than ever. But they come with one important responsibility: proper cleaning. 

At DentAlign NYC in Midtown East, Manhattan, Kenn Kakosian, DDS, PhD, recommends Invisalign for patients of all ages, from busy adults to carefree teenagers. However, it’s essential to follow these daily cleaning requirements.

Why cleaning is crucial

One of the advantages of Invisalign is its tight, snug fit around your teeth, which makes them comfortable and virtually invisible. However, it can also leave your teeth and aligner trays vulnerable to bacteria buildup that’s invisible to the naked eye.

If bacteria accumulate on your aligners, it can lead to three unpleasant outcomes:

Because of this, you need to rinse and clean your Invisalign trays every day. Regular rinsing helps eliminate visible debris while cleansing with a soft-bristled toothbrush that scrubs away all the particles that can accumulate during the day — including those you can’t see.

You should clean your aligners every night when you brush and floss your teeth or whenever they seem dirty.

How to clean your aligners

For best results, only rinse and clean your aligners with recommended substances. Some dental cleansers that seem safe, like mouthwashes, toothpaste, and denture cleansers, can be too harsh and damage your aligners.

Instead, choose a soft-bristled toothbrush designed exclusively for your aligners and Steraligner or cleaning crystal products made by Invisalign. Simply soak your aligners in a tray of these solutions for three minutes, rinse, and brush with warm water. When rinsing your aligners, only use fresh water.

Your daily aligner cleansing process should include:

Following these steps keeps your aligners clean and fresh until it’s time for a new set.

Caring for your aligners

Beyond proper cleansing, follow these additional steps to keep your aligners free from bacteria:

Also, avoid using very hot water when rinsing or cleaning your aligner trays.

Following these additional recommendations keeps your aligners clear and invisible while they discreetly straighten your teeth.

Ready to try Invisalign for yourself? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kakosian and our team at DentAlign NYC in the Midtown East neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, today. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

 10 Tips to Prevent Bad Breath

10 Tips to Prevent Bad Breath

How many times have you found yourself in close quarters and wondered about your breath? Bad breath can be problematic, and it could even indicate a serious health issue
How Can Periodontal Treatment Benefit Me?

How Can Periodontal Treatment Benefit Me?

Periodontal treatment focuses on your gums and other structures that support your teeth. Having a dentist with experience in these treatments ensures you receive optimal care for all your oral health needs.
Why Do Teeth Lose Their Whiteness?

Why Do Teeth Lose Their Whiteness?

Have your teeth lost their luster? You’re not alone. Fortunately, you can restore your smile. In fact, you can even do it in a single visit. Keep reading to learn more.
8 Unexpected Health Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

8 Unexpected Health Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

You already know you need to brush and floss. And you know you’re supposed to go to the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. What you might not know is all the ways these things benefit your overall health.