Dentists in Bay Shore NY give tips for cleaning your Invisalign Aligners
So you've taken the steps to getting a straighter smile! This can be an exiciting time after having appointments with your dentist. But with this treatment, you will need to do some work as well to ensure that you have the most efficient and healthy experience as your teeth begin to shift. It is very important to follow all of the steps as instructed by your dentist to make sure your clear aligners are clean.
After every few weeks or months, you will get a new set of trays as detemined by your dentist. You will get new Invisalign trays to slowly shift the teeth into the correct position. During this process, it is vital to keep these trays as clean as possible. If Invisalign trays aren’t properly cleaned, they can become dull or discolored. They can also wear down more easily. Cleaning your Invisalign Aligners will reduce bacteria growth and will keep your Invisalign stay invisible. Developing a regular cleaning routine will help keep your Invisalign trays in good condition.
First and foremost, it is vital to always remove your Invisalign when eating or playing in sports. Be sure to wash your hands and brush your teeth as well before inserting the aligners back over your teeth. And always be sure to wear your aligners for twenty to twenty-two hours for best results. And always be sure to go to your scheduled check-ups that usually occur every six to eight weeks to make sure you are on track!
Now, since we know the basics, here's some more information on keeping those aligners nice and clean. We’ve broken some tips down for you, so you can choose which cleaning option works best for you.
Step one is to always brush the inside and outside of your aligners. PLease be sure to brush gently, as you don't want the aligners to break! After, rinse with cold water. Hot water can distort the shape of the aligners, and ultimately your smile!
Once this step is complete, you can choose from the following deep-cleaning methods:
Invisalign Cleaning System
Invisalign has a cleaning kit that comes with a pack of cleaning crystals. Combining a crystal with water and soaking your trays for 15 minutes will keep them clean. While very efficient, the cleaning system may not be practical to some patients when it comes to cost. The cleaning system is currently $75.00 and the cleaning crystals retail for fifty packets for $50.00. Luckily, there are many other alternatives.
Efferdent or Polident Denture Cleaner
Commercially prepared efferdent or polident denture cleaning products can be used to clean invisible braces. They’re formulated with a type of oxidizing compound that’s capable of killing bacteria and microorganisms. They’re also very effective in removing stains. Soak your trays in a denture cleaner for about 15 minutes; then, take them out and brush off any buildup.
Mouthwash
While having your meal, soak your trays in mouthwash to keep them fresh and clean. Note that using mint mouthwash may leave a greenish tint on your trays. Use a whitening mouthwash since the liquid is clear. Be sure to rinse the aligners afterwards.
Retainer Brite
Retainer Brite is used in the same way as denture cleaners, but it’s formulated with the right level of PH that isn’t harsh for plastics.
Antibacterial Liquid Soap
Brushing your trays with antibacterial hand soap or even dish soap is an easy way to remove the bacteria that accumulate on your trays. Make sure to rinse your trays well before using them.
Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Hydrogen peroxide is mainly used for killing bacteria. Make the solution with half hydrogen peroxide and half water. Soak your trays in the solution for 20 minutes. This works like denture cleaners but is significantly cheaper.
Vinegar Solution
Make the solution with half vinegar and half warm water. Soak your trays while having your meal. Rinse them off very well and let them dry before putting them back in your mouth to get rid of the vinegar taste.
If you have any other questions, please give us a call at Bay Dental Health today!
