How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners: Cleaning, Storing and Daily Habits
cosmeticdentistry
A simple routine for cleaning, storing and wearing clear aligners, so they stay fresh, clear and comfortable between dental visits.
Once treatment begins, a few small habits make aligners easier to live with. This routine covers the basics. Your dentist may give you slightly different advice for your case, so follow their directions first.
Step 1: Clean your aligners every day
Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water whenever you take them out. Once a day, brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and avoid toothpaste with strong abrasives, which can leave tiny scratches that cloud the surface.
Step 2: Brush and floss before putting them back in
Food trapped under an aligner stays against your teeth. Brushing and flossing before you put your aligners back in helps keep your teeth and gums comfortable.
Step 3: Store them in their case
When aligners are out, place them in their case right away. Wrapping them in a napkin is a common way they end up in the garbage. Keep the case with you, and keep aligners away from pets and heat.
Step 4: Know what to drink
Plain water is fine with aligners in. Coffee, tea, wine and sugary drinks are best enjoyed with aligners out, then brush before putting them back in.
Step 5: Keep track of your sets
Change to the next set on the schedule your dentist gives you, and keep your previous set in case you need a backup. If an aligner cracks or goes missing, call your dentist rather than guessing.
Step 6: Keep your check-ins
Regular visits let your dentist see how your teeth are moving and make sure treatment stays on track. If you're curious about the science, read how Invisalign moves teeth.
Questions about aligners?
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