If you wear Invisalign retainers, keeping them clean is essential to prevent tooth decay and bad breath. These retainers can be disinfected while you wear them all day, but they can easily collect plaque, bacteria, and food particles.
Proper cleaning helps you disinfect the Invisalign retainer. But how to clean Invisalign retainers? It is pretty simple if you read our blog. This blog will explore the best way to clean Invisalign retainers. Let’s get started.
Why Cleaning Your Invisalign Retainers is Important?
Since your retainers are in direct contact with your teeth, they can quickly build up bacteria. If you don’t clean them regularly, they may develop an unpleasant odor, discolor, or even contribute to bad breath.
More importantly, dirty retainers can lead to gum infections, cavities, and other oral health problems. Just like you wouldn’t skip brushing your teeth, you shouldn’t neglect cleaning your aligners. A clean retainer helps you maintain a bright smile while also preventing bacteria from affecting your gums and teeth.
How to Clean Invisalign Trays? Easy Ways
Cleaning your Invisalign retainers daily is the best way to keep them fresh and free from bacteria. Every morning and night, you should give them a good rinse and gently brush them to remove any buildup. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Rinse with Lukewarm Water
Each time you remove your retainers, rinse them under lukewarm water to clean saliva and debris. Do not rinse with hot water; otherwise, the plastic can be damaged.
Step 2: Brush Gently with a Soft Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild, clear liquid soap to gently scrub your retainers. Do not use toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and cause scratches.
Step 3: Rinse Again
After brushing, rinse your retainers thoroughly under water to remove any soap or loosened debris.
Step 4: Let Them Dry
Before putting them back in, let your retainers air-dry for a few minutes. This saves moisture buildup, which can lead to bacteria growth.
How to Deep Clean Retainers?
Do you follow a regular cleaning routine but are still facing plaque or discoloration? If you are experiencing this, you should give a deep cleaning to your invisalign retainers once or twice a week. Here are a few tips for deep cleaning.
Method 1: Soaking in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Invisalign crystals are one of the fastest ways to deep clean Invisalign retainers. These crystals break down the plaque and kill germs on Invisalign retainers. Take a cup of lukewarm water and dissolve crystals in it. Then, soak your Invisalign retainers for 15-20 minutes in it. After that, remove them, rinse them in clean water, and wear them again.
Method 2: Using a Denture or Retainer Cleaner
You can also use a denture or retainer cleaner, like Efferdent or Polident. These cleaners are affordable and simple solutions to get deep cleaning. Drop one tablet into a cup of lukewarm water and soak your retainers for about 15 minutes. Then rinse them off completely before putting them back in your mouth.
Method 3: White Vinegar and Water Solution
White vinegar is also a good material to get deep cleaning. It is a natural disinfectant that can remove bacteria and buildup from your retainers. Mix equally white vinegar and lukewarm water in a cup. Soak your retainers for about 20 minutes, then rinse them thoroughly. The smell of vinegar will fade quickly, leaving your retainers fresh and clean.
Method 4: Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is another good material for removing stains and bacteria. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a thick paste. It is good if you have a soft toothbrush. Use it gently to scrub your retainers, then rinse them well before putting them back in.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Invisalign Retainers?
To keep your Invisalign retainers in good condition, there are a few things you should avoid:
- No Hot Water: Never clean your retainers with hot or boiling water, as heat can warp their shape and make them ineffective.
- No Colored or Scented Soaps: Many soaps contain dyes or fragrances that can stain your retainers or leave an unpleasant taste.
- No Toothpaste: While toothpaste may seem like a good cleaning option, most toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients that can scratch your retainers, making them more likely to trap bacteria.
- No Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using household cleaners, alcohol, or bleach solutions, as they can damage the plastic and make your retainers unsafe to wear.
Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics: Best Clinic for Deep Oral Cleaning
If you are experiencing cleaning issues even after deep cleaning your Invisalign retainers, you should consider deep oral cleaning. For deep dental cleaning, choose a trusted clinic like Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics. We recommend them for various reasons. They are experienced and have dealt with thousands of dental problem cases. They are affordable and provide excellent services. At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, your treatment will be done with advanced techniques and equipment.
Final Thoughts
If you wear Invisalign retainers, you need proper cleaning to enjoy good oral health. Otherwise, you may experience several dental issues. Cleaning Invisalign retainers is not complicated, but you should follow the right methods to get proper results.
Follow the simple ways mentioned above for regular and deep cleaning. However, if you still face cleaning issues, it is better to consider deep dental cleaning. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics is the best clinic for deep dental cleaning. You will get affordable and excellent services.