How to Clean Your Invisalign Trays Properly: Do’s and Don’ts
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment known for its clear, nearly invisible aligners that straighten teeth without the need for traditional braces. But to keep your smile healthy and your treatment on track, proper care of your Invisalign trays is essential. Just like your teeth, your aligners can accumulate plaque, bacteria, and even stains if not cleaned correctly.
At Carpiaux Family Orthodontics, we want to ensure you get the best possible results from your Invisalign treatment. That means knowing exactly how to clean and care for your aligners at home. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential do’s and don’ts of cleaning Invisalign trays—so your aligners stay fresh, clear, and effective.
Why Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays Matters
Because Invisalign trays sit directly on your teeth for 20–22 hours per day, they come into constant contact with saliva, food particles, and bacteria. Failing to clean them properly can result in:
- Foul odor and bad breath
- Cloudy or stained aligners
- Bacterial buildup that may lead to tooth decay or gum irritation
- Reduced effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment
Keeping your trays clean helps maintain your oral hygiene, supports your overall health, and preserves the discreet look that makes Invisalign so appealing in the first place.
The Do’s: How to Clean Your Invisalign Trays the Right Way
1. Clean Your Trays Every Morning and Night
Just like brushing your teeth, cleaning your aligners should be part of your morning and bedtime routine. Bacteria can build up overnight and throughout the day, so cleaning them twice a day is crucial.
2. Rinse Your Aligners Every Time You Remove Them
Even a quick rinse under lukewarm water helps remove saliva and food particles. This keeps your trays fresh and prevents bacteria from multiplying while they’re out of your mouth.
3. Use a Soft Toothbrush
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush designated only for your aligners helps gently scrub away debris without scratching the plastic. You can use clear, unscented liquid soap (not toothpaste) to clean them thoroughly.
4. Soak Your Aligners Regularly
Soak your trays in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, a denture cleaner, or a mild retainer cleaner once a day. This helps break down plaque and keep the aligners crystal clear.
5. Store Your Trays Properly
Whenever you remove your aligners to eat or drink, store them in their protective Invisalign case. This prevents contamination, accidental damage, and misplacement.
The Don’ts: Mistakes That Can Damage Your Invisalign Trays
1. Don’t Use Hot Water
Never rinse or soak your aligners in hot or boiling water. Heat can warp the plastic, altering the fit and effectiveness of the trays. Always use lukewarm or cool water instead.
2. Don’t Use Toothpaste or Mouthwash to Clean Them
Toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the plastic, causing cloudiness and attracting bacteria. Similarly, many mouthwashes contain dyes or alcohol that may discolor or damage your trays.
3. Don’t Eat or Drink with Aligners In
Food and sugary drinks can get trapped between your teeth and aligners, leading to plaque buildup and cavities. Always remove your trays before eating or drinking anything other than water.
4. Don’t Leave Trays Out in the Open
Leaving aligners exposed to air and surfaces increases the risk of bacterial contamination and damage. Always place them in a clean, dry case when not in use.
5. Don’t Skip Cleaning Days
It’s easy to forget to clean your trays during a busy day, but even one skipped cleaning can allow bacteria to build up. Make it part of your daily habits to keep your treatment on track and your mouth healthy.
How Clean Aligners Support Better Results
When you properly clean and care for your Invisalign trays, you’re doing more than just keeping your breath fresh—you’re protecting your investment in your smile. Clean trays help:
- Prevent oral health problems during treatment
- Keep your aligners invisible and odor-free
- Ensure your treatment plan progresses on schedule
At Carpiaux Family Orthodontics, we’ve seen firsthand how consistent care can lead to faster, more comfortable, and more successful Invisalign treatment outcomes.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
Even with the best at-home care, sometimes things go wrong. If you notice any of the following issues, reach out to your orthodontist:
- Cracks, warping, or breakage in the trays
- Persistent discoloration or odor that won’t go away
- Poor fit or discomfort that suddenly appears
- You accidentally lost or damaged a tray
Our team at Carpiaux Family Orthodontics is always here to help. Whether you need a replacement tray, a fit adjustment, or simply have questions about aligner care, we’re just a phone call away.
Ready to Start or Improve Your Invisalign Journey? Contact Carpiaux Family Orthodontics Today!
Invisalign is an incredible option for a straighter smile, but it works best when paired with diligent care—especially when it comes to cleaning your trays. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll keep your aligners fresh, invisible, and effective throughout your treatment.
At Carpiaux Family Orthodontics, we’re passionate about helping patients of all ages achieve confident, healthy smiles through personalized orthodontic care. Whether you’re considering Invisalign or already started your treatment, our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.
Have questions about cleaning your trays or need help with your Invisalign treatment?
Don’t wait—contact Carpiaux Family Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation or get expert advice. Your dream smile starts with the right care, and we’re here to help you achieve it.
