How to Use Your Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
If you’re ready to start your journey to a straight smile with Invisalign, it’s time to step up your oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing are important because your risk of cavities and gum disease can increase when wearing Invisalign. However, cleaning your aligners is equally important. Rinsing your aligners isn’t enough. Here’s how to use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals to prevent aligner stains.
Benefits of Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Your aligners can lose their translucency from staining, which is one reason you shouldn’t wear them when having anything except water. Not to mention, plaque and bacteria can build up on your aligners, making them look discolored. An overgrowth of bacteria can also lead to unpleasant odors and damage to your aligners over time.
It’s important to clean your Invisalign with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a clear hand soap or dishwashing liquid at least twice daily. Although brushing removes plaque, your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere. Cleaning crystals remove bacteria and plaque your toothbrush couldn’t reach to keep your aligners clean and looking their best. Here’s how to use the solution to clean your Invisalign:
- Remove and Rinse: Remove your aligners and hold them under running lukewarm water to rinse away plaque and saliva. Never expose your aligners to hot water or boil them because they can warp.
- Prepare the Solution: Fill a container with warm water, preferably one with a lid, but a regular drinking glass will also work. Add the recommended amount of Invisalign cleaning crystals and shake or stir until fully dissolved. Place your aligners into the container, making sure they are fully submerged. Shake/stir the solution for 20 seconds.
- Soak Your Invisalign: Let your aligners sit for a minimum of 15 minutes. Shake or stir the solution one more time before rinsing your aligners with warm water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean them to ensure there’s no solution, stains, or bacteria on them before popping your aligners into your mouth.
Your aligners will be minty fresh and bacteria-free. Invisalign Cleaning Crystals kill over 99% of odor-causing bacteria. It is safe to use daily on aligners, retainers, nightguards, and mouthguards.
Keep Your Mouth Sparkling Clean
Caring for your aligners will ensure there aren’t any unexpected complications along the way. However, never use any abrasive dental products because they can scratch your aligners. Plaque can get trapped in the scratches, causing damage, discoloration, and odors.
Besides keeping your aligners clean, brush your teeth after every meal for 2 minutes and floss every day. Don’t forget to schedule your semi-annual cleaning and checkup to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
About Dr. Brenda J. Young
Dr. Young has been practicing dentistry in Northern Virginia for nearly 3 decades. Since earning her dental degree, she has regularly continued her training to provide the latest solutions in dentistry. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the Virginia Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (703) 560-6301.