How to Clean Aligners? The Art of Cleaning Illusion Aligners

Straightening your teeth with clear aligners is a great option. But because they are removable, they require a different kind of care than traditional braces do. Clean aligners mean a clean mouth. Maintaining the cleanliness of your aligners helps prevent bad breath and tooth decay. Stain-free and undetectable aligners are also a benefit. When you think of your aligners as an extension of your teeth, cleaning invisible aligners becomes a breeze.

If you have ever asked yourself, how to clean my aligners? Then this is the guide for you.

So, let’s begin.

Wash them every day

For at least 20 hours, your aligners remain in your mouth. You'll only need one set for a few weeks. Washing your aligners twice a day, every day is essential.

Don't use toothpaste

Toothpastes are intended to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. A less abrasive material is required for aligners. So if you want to avoid toothpastes, you should do so.

Refrain from using hot water

Your aligners are made of plastic that is kind to your teeth and gums. And it's safe to say that subjecting them to high temperatures will do them harm. Cold water is preferable to hot water while washing them.

Brush your teeth

If you have food stuck in between your teeth, it will remain there even after you remove your aligners and brush your teeth. Plaque, bad breath, and even cavities can result from this. Rinse your mouth out with mouthwash after each meal and before putting on the aligners.

As a last resort, we recommend using a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your teeth. The plastic in your aligners should not be damaged or scratched if you brush them gently. Using a toothbrush that hasn't been used in a while will help prevent your aligners from being scratched or dulled by toothpaste with abrasive ingredients.

Clean your aligner case

Your aligner case should be cleaned on a regular basis. The aligner case must also be immaculate. To avoid contamination, do not leave the container open or near any food or drink. Keep your aligners out of direct sunlight. If the aligners are not in use, they should be stored in the case. You don't want the aligners to come into contact with any dust or moisture.

What mistakes to avoid while cleaning Aligners?

In the meantime, we'll show you the wrong way to aligner cleaning. To avoid damaging your invisible aligners, avoid using the following items when cleaning them:

1. Brushing with abrasives

You can't use the same tooth cleaning products on your aligners as you can on your teeth. As a result, you're limited to using a particular brand of toothpaste. This is due to the fact that most toothpastes have abrasive properties, which can cause scratches in the plastic resin of your aligners. Your invisible aligners may become more noticeable as a result of these scratches.

When using toothpaste, make sure it's non-abrasive and used sparingly.

1. Colored Mouthwash

Coloured mouthwash is another dental hygiene product that you should avoid using while wearing your aligners. Due to the presence of artificial coloring agents, coloured mouthwashes can permanently discolor your aligners. If you must use a mouthwash, look for one that says "Clear" on the label.

1. Dishwasher Basics

Using a dishwasher to clean your aligners may seem like a convenient and easy option, but it is actually not a good idea. Dishwashers use extremely hot water to clean their contents, and this can cause damage or discoloration to your braces.

1. Heated Water

In fact, the plastic in your aligners can be damaged by using hot water. Plastic can warp when exposed to water's heat, changing its shape. Because your aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, any alterations to their shape will render them useless for straightening your teeth, if not unusable altogether.

1. Chemicals that are too harsh

The use of harsh chemicals, such as bleach or alcohol, can permanently damage or discolor your aligners. Always go with the kinder options that we've provided you with right here in this article.

Extra Note

Clear Aligners should be removed prior to consuming food or beverages. If you're still wearing your aligners, eating or drinking can damage them in addition to being uncomfortable. The plastic surfaces of the trays and your teeth can be damaged by food, which can get stuck in the gaps between the trays.

Dark liquids such as carbonated sugary drinks, coffee, red wine, and even whiskey can stain plastic. It's possible to use a straw to counteract this, but it's best to just avoid them altogether.

For patients who have never worn aligners before, this is a common blunder. Taking out your aligners and rinsing them is all that is needed. Make a point of washing them thoroughly if you have the opportunity. Maintaining clean invisible aligners isn't difficult. The methods outlined above are relatively simple to implement in your daily routine.

Contact the clinic right away if you'd like more information on aligners or the various types that are available. Reach out to our team if you need help cleaning your aligners.