How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners

Expert guidance from Stephen Forrest, DDS, at Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center

Keeping Invisalign aligners clean is essential for a healthy mouth and a confident smile. Stephen Forrest, DDS, shares simple and effective ways to care for your aligners so they stay clear, odor-free, and effective throughout your Invisalign treatment.

Why You Should Clean Your Aligners

Invisalign aligners are worn up to 22 hours a day. They sit snug against your teeth, making them prone to plaque buildup, staining, and odor. Cleaning them removes harmful bacteria and keeps them looking invisible. Clear trays mean a cleaner smile and smoother progress during your treatment.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water twice a day. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Take them out and rinse: Every morning and evening, remove your trays and rinse them under cool or lukewarm water.
Brush them gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (not the same one used on your teeth). If needed, use a small amount of clear, unscented liquid soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch the plastic.
Rinse again: Make sure no soap remains before placing the aligners back in your mouth or storing them.
Clean your teeth too: Always brush and floss before wearing your trays. This prevents food from being trapped and transferring to the aligners.
Storage Tip: When not wearing your aligners, keep them in their protective case. Never leave them out on a table, napkin, or sink.

Cleaning After Eating and Drinking

Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. After your meal:

Rinse your mouth and aligners.
Brush your teeth if possible.
Put your aligners back in only after they are clean and your teeth are clean.
If brushing isn’t possible, at least rinse with water and wear them until you can clean them properly. Drinking water throughout the day can also help reduce bacteria buildup.

Weekly Deep Clean (Soaking)

Once a week, soak your trays to remove lingering bacteria and any buildup that brushing can’t handle. Choose one of the following:

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals: These dissolve in water and remove deep stains. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse.
Retainer or Denture Tablets: Available at most pharmacies. Use according to instructions, then rinse well.
White Vinegar Mix: Combine equal parts vinegar and lukewarm water. Soak trays for 20 minutes, then rinse and brush.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mix: Use half water and half hydrogen peroxide. Soak for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Optional: Ultrasonic cleaning devices can be used but are not necessary for good results. A weekly soak is usually enough.

Dos and Don’ts

Do:

Use lukewarm or cool water.
Brush your aligners gently.
Soak your trays weekly.

Don’t:

Use hot or boiling water.
Use toothpaste, bleach, or alcohol-based cleaners.
Leave trays in napkins or exposed surfaces.
Eat or drink with trays in your mouth (except water).

Troubleshooting Tips

Smelly aligners? Try a vinegar or peroxide soak. If odor remains, contact your provider.
White film won’t come off? This may be plaque buildup. Soak and brush more frequently or use cleaning crystals.
Cloudy trays? Scratches from toothpaste or abrasive brushes may cause cloudiness. Avoid these products to preserve clarity.

Maintain a Clean, Clear Smile

Stick to a consistent care routine:

Brush and rinse aligners twice daily
Soak weekly with a safe cleaner
Store them clean and dry
Keep them out during meals
Brush your teeth before reinserting

With daily care and expert support, you can keep your Invisalign trays fresh, comfortable, and working as they should.

If you have questions about your Invisalign treatment or need help keeping your aligners clean, contact Stephen Forrest, DDS, at Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center. His team is here to guide you through every stage of your smile transformation