How to Clean Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign braces are one of the most popular methods for straightening your teeth with Invisalign and are the preferred option for many patients due to their nearly invisible appearance. But to keep your aligners in good condition, it is essential to clean and care for them properly. Here are our recommended methods for how to clean Invisalign braces.

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals

The recommended method is the specially formulated Invisalign cleaning crystals, which are designed to eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath and remove plaque build up. The crystals come in individual packets with a specially designed sterilisation container.

To clean your aligners, fill the container with warm water (not hot), pour in the packet of crystals and gently stir to dissolve. Immerse the trays in the cleaning solution for 15 minutes, then remove them and gently brush the nooks and crannies with a soft bristled toothbrush (not the same brush you use to brush your teeth). Rinse under clean water, then either store them in their case if you are not going to use them immediately, or place them in your mouth.

Cleaning Your Aligners with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an ingredient used in a variety of dental products from teeth whitening gels to mouthwash to toothpaste and is a highly effective antibacterial and antiseptic compound⁠ (another site).

To clean your aligners using hydrogen peroxide, combine equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide with warm water to create a solution and soak the trays for 30 minutes, then gently brush and rinse under clean water.

Do not use hydrogen peroxide based mouthwash to clean your aligners as the colours will stain them. Also, make sure that you do not use too high a concentration of hydrogen peroxide as it may deteriorate the plastic in the trays.

Cleaning Your Aligners with Antibacterial Soap

Antibacterial soap is specially formulated to kill harmful bacteria including the bacteria found inside your mouth. To clean your aligners with antibacterial soap you can pour a small amount directly into each tray and brush gently with a soft toothbrush, or you can create a solution and soak the trays for 15 minutes before brushing them.

Make sure that you use clear antibacterial soap and not coloured soaps, as the dyes used in the soap can stain and damage your trays.

Cleaning Your Aligners with Baking Soda

For a natural alternative using an ingredient most people have in the cupboard at home, try a solution of baking soda and water. Baking soda is both abrasive to remove plaque and has antibacterial properties.

To make the solution dissolve 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water. Soak your trays for up to 60 minutes, then remove and brush with a soft toothbrush. It is important not to brush too hard as the abrasive particles in the baking soda can scratch the trays, making them more prone to staining and no longer invisible. Rinse thoroughly, and either store them or wear them.

Cleaning Your Aligners with Vinegar

Another natural and straightforward method is vinegar. Vinegar is acidic, which kills bacteria⁠ (another site) and loosens plaque. It is important only to use distilled white vinegar because it will not stain your aligners.

Dilute 1 part white vinegar in 3 parts warm water to create the cleaning solution and leave the aligners to soak for 15 minutes. Then brush gently and rinse under clean water.

Take Care of Your Invisalign Aligners

Keeping your aligners clean is an integral part of ensuring that they work effectively to straighten your teeth. Try one of these simple methods to keep both your teeth and your trays in good condition.