If you’re committed to achieving a straighter, healthier smile with Invisalign, knowing how to care for your trays is essential. Proper maintenance not only ensures the trays remain clear and unnoticeable but also contributes to the success of your treatment.
Let’s explore the best practices for caring for your Invisalign trays, so you can enjoy a smooth and effective treatment process.
Why Invisalign Tray Care Is Important?
Invisalign trays work best when they are clean and clear. Neglecting proper care can lead to staining, odors, and bacteria buildup, which can impact your oral health and slow down your progress. Regular cleaning also ensures that your trays stay virtually invisible, maintaining the aesthetic advantage Invisalign is known for.
Here’s everything you need to know to keep your Invisalign trays in top condition.
Clean Your Trays Daily
The number one rule of Invisalign tray care is to clean them every day. Without regular cleaning, plaque, bacteria, and food particles can cling to the trays, leading to bad breath and even cavities. Here’s how to maintain them daily:
- Rinse your trays every morning and evening: Always rinse your Invisalign tray when you remove them to prevent bacteria from building up. This should be done with lukewarm water (never hot water, as it can warp the plastic).
- Use a soft toothbrush: Gently brush your trays with a soft toothbrush to remove debris. You can also use a clear, mild soap for a more thorough clean. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and cause scratches on the trays.
- Avoid soaking in mouthwash: Mouthwash can contain dyes that stain your trays. Opt for Invisalign cleaning crystals or a special tray cleaner to keep your aligners clean and clear.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Invisalign tray sits snugly against your teeth, so any food particles or plaque left behind can get trapped under the trays, leading to decay. Before reinserting your aligners after meals or snacks, always brush and floss to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your treatment.
- Brush after every meal: Make it a habit to brush your teeth after every meal or drink, especially sugary or acidic beverages. This prevents residue from transferring onto your aligners.
- Floss daily: Don’t skip flossing! Removing plaque between teeth reduces the risk of decay and gum disease during your Invisalign treatment.
Proper Storage of Invisalign Trays
Whenever you remove your Invisalign trays to eat or drink, it’s crucial to store them properly to avoid damage or loss. Here are a few tips:
- Use the provided case: Always place your trays in the provided case to protect them. Leaving them out can expose the trays to bacteria, dirt, or accidental damage.
- Avoid wrapping in napkins: It’s easy to accidentally throw your aligners away if you wrap them in a napkin while eating. Make sure they’re safely stored in the case instead.
- Keep them away from pets: Pets, especially dogs, tend to chew on trays left out in the open. Safeguard your trays by keeping them out of reach when not in use.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Certain foods and drinks can stain or damage your Invisalign trays. To ensure your aligners remain as invisible as possible, avoid:
- Dark-colored beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and sodas can stain your trays. If you must have them, remove your aligners first and brush them before reinserting.
- Sticky or hard foods: These can not only damage your trays but also make it difficult to clean them afterward.
- Chewing gum: This can stick to your trays and is difficult to remove without scratching the plastic.
Do Not Eat or Drink While Wearing Your Trays
Invisalign trays should be removed during meals to prevent food and drink from getting stuck between your teeth and the aligners. Eating with your trays in can cause bacteria buildup, and drinking hot liquids can warp the plastic, leading to ill-fitting trays.
- Remove before every meal: Always take your trays out when eating to maintain their integrity and cleanliness.
- Stick to water: Water is the only beverage safe to drink while wearing your aligners. Other drinks can stain or damage your trays.
How to Handle Stains or Odors
If you notice that your Invisalign trays are becoming stained or giving off an odor despite regular cleaning, it’s important to act quickly. Trays should remain odor-free and clear to ensure effective treatment.
- Use Invisalign cleaning crystals: These crystals are designed to remove buildup and stains from your trays. Soak them as directed to keep your aligners looking fresh.
- White vinegar solution: If cleaning crystals are not available, a mixture of white vinegar and water can be used to remove stains and kill bacteria. Make sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Baking soda paste: You can also use a small amount of baking soda mixed with water to scrub the trays lightly. This can help with any odors or tough stains but always rinse thoroughly before reinserting the trays.
Wear Your Trays for the Recommended Time
Caring for your Invisalign trays goes beyond cleaning them. Following the recommended wear time is equally important for successful treatment. Invisalign trays are typically worn for 20-22 hours per day to effectively shift your teeth. Wearing them less could extend your treatment time or affect your results.
- Follow your orthodontist’s guidance: Ensure you wear your trays for the required duration to stay on track with your treatment plan.
- Switch trays as directed: Typically, you will switch to a new set of trays every one to two weeks, but always follow your provider’s instructions on when to change them.
Check for Damage Regularly
It’s essential to regularly inspect your Invisalign trays for signs of damage. Cracks or rough edges can irritate your gums and slow your progress.
- Check your trays before inserting: Always inspect your trays for any signs of damage or distortion before placing them in your mouth.
- Contact your orthodontist if damaged: If you notice cracks or warping, contact your orthodontist immediately for a replacement. Wearing damaged trays can prevent proper alignment and delay your results.
Keep Up with Dental Appointments
Even though Invisalign allows for fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces, it’s still important to keep up with your scheduled appointments. Regular check-ins help ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
- Follow up on time: Attending all scheduled appointments allows your orthodontist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
- Ask questions: If you have concerns or questions about caring for your trays, don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist for advice.
Incorporating these tips into your daily routine ensures that your Invisalign trays remain in excellent condition and that your treatment progresses smoothly. A clean, well-maintained set of trays keeps your smile clear and your results on track!
