Have you ever seen Invisalign aligners with pigmented, yellow stains? If so, you know that they draw quite a bit of attention, which isn’t ideal when one of the biggest perks of this orthodontic treatment is how discreet it is. The good news is that there are several easy ways you can take care of your Invisalign aligners, ensuring they don’t discolor or start to smell. To learn what they are, keep reading!
1. Use Clean, Cool Water to Rinse Your Aligners
When you take your aligners out, they will be coated in saliva. That’s why you need to rinse them with clean water each time you remove them! Just make sure you check the temperature of the water with your hand first. If it’s too hot, then there’s a chance that your aligners will warp, which you want to avoid.
2. Store Your Aligners in Their Designated Case
In short, what you do with your aligners after rinsing them matters. If you wrap them in a napkin, put them on your plate, or place them on the bathroom counter, then there’s a good chance that they will get thrown away or misplaced. That’s why it’s important to get in the habit of always putting them in their designated storage case instead.
3. Clean Your Aligners with a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Before you put your aligners back on, make sure that you clean your teeth and your aligners. To accomplish the latter, use a damp, soft-bristled toothbrush and some clear, mild dishwashing liquid to gently clear away saliva, plaque, and other debris. Then, rinse them thoroughly with clean, cool water again.
4. Soak Your Aligners Daily
While you’re eating your dinner or completing your oral hygiene routine at night, it’s a good idea to soak your aligners. Placing them in a dentist-recommended clear aligner cleaner ensures that debris is removed from the nooks and crannies. Plus, it helps prevent any odors or stains from developing.
Note: Do NOT soak them in mouthwash, bleach, or any other household cleaners.
5. Take Your Aligners Out Before Eating
Remember, no matter how soft the food is, you need to remove your aligners before eating. You also need to take them out before drinking anything other than water, including iced coffee. This will go a long way in preventing stains, cracks, and other damage.
About the Practice
Our entire team at Water’s Edge Dental is united by the goal of providing patients with custom, cutting-edge, and compassionate dental care. So, whether you’re visiting us for a routine checkup or Invisalign, you can expect just that! The first step is scheduling an appointment with our dedicated dentist in Port Orange, Dr. Bannan. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (386) 516-4351 if you’re ready to take the next step toward your dream smile.