6 Tips For Keeping Your Invisalign Clean

Invisalign is a convenient and nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth—but only if your aligners stay clear. If you’re wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day (which you should be!), they’re going to need regular cleaning. The good news? It doesn’t take much to keep them fresh—you just need a few smart habits.

At Alma Dental Care, Dr. Maria Serrano helps patients in Petaluma get the most out of their Invisalign treatment, and that includes keeping trays clean, clear, and odor-free. Here are six tips to help you do just that.

1. Rinse Every Time You Take Them Out

Each time you remove your aligners, give them a quick rinse under cool or lukewarm water. This helps wash away saliva and bacteria before it has time to dry on the plastic. Just be sure to avoid hot water—it can warp the trays.

2. Brush Them Gently, But Not With Toothpaste

Use a soft toothbrush (separate from your regular one) and clean your aligners with mild soap or just water. Skip the toothpaste—it can scratch the surface and cause them to look cloudy over time.

3. Clean Your Teeth Before Putting Aligners Back in

Even a small amount of food or sugar on your teeth can get trapped under your aligners. This can lead to bad breath, staining, or even cavities. Make it a habit to brush or at least rinse before popping them back in.

4. Soak Them Regularly

A daily soak helps keep your aligners looking and feeling fresh. You can use Invisalign cleaning crystals or over-the-counter retainer cleaning tablets. Follow the directions, rinse thoroughly, and don’t forget to brush them afterward. This step keeps odor and bacteria in check.

5. Store Them in Their Case

It sounds basic, but it’s a big one: don’t leave your aligners on napkins or countertops. It’s an easy way for them to collect bacteria — or end up in the trash by accident. Use your Invisalign case every time you take them out. It protects your aligners and keeps them safe.

6. Don’t Eat or Drink With Them in

Water is the only safe thing to consume while wearing aligners. Coffee, tea, red wine, and sodas can stain aligners — and quickly. If you drink them while wearing your trays, they may absorb the color. Always remove your aligners when drinking anything other than water. Then rinse your mouth and your trays before putting them back in.

Clear Aligner Therapy at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA

Clear aligners are effective—but they need a little daily care to stay that way. At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, Dr. Serrano and her team walk patients through every step of Invisalign treatment, including how to keep your trays clean and your teeth protected along the way.

Have questions about your aligner routine or need help with stubborn buildup? Book a visit—we’re here to make your Invisalign experience smooth, simple, and smile-worthy.

Categorised in: Orthodontics