The Best Way to Clean Invisalign Retainers

How To Clean Invisalign Retainers? Are your Invisalign retainers looking a bit grimy? Perhaps, it’s time to improve your cleaning routine.

Invisalign retainers are made of clear plastic, making them virtually invisible when you wear them. You just pop them in and out when needed. But sometimes they can become discolored or smelly over time due to build-up of plaque and food debris on the surface. The residue can cause staining and bad breath problems if you don’t take proper care of the retainers.

Maintaining top-of-the-line oral hygiene is crucial for everyone, particularly those who wear orthodontic devices like Invisalign retainers. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the effectiveness and longevity of your retainers. And there’s a difference between cleaning your retainers and just rinsing them off when you remove them each day.

To ensure your retainer stays clear, clean, and odorless at all times, we will explain the best way to clean Invisalign retainers with ease.

How Often Should You Clean Your Invisalign Retainers?

Just like it was important to keep your Invisalign aligners clean during your treatment, it is equally as important to clean your Invisalign retainers regularly. Experts recommend cleaning them once daily with lukewarm water and a mild soap.

Steps for Cleaning Your Invisalign Retainers

Cleaning Invisalign retainers is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping them free from bacteria and odors. Follow these steps as a basic cleaning method for your retainers.

1. 1. Rinse with lukewarm water: After removing the teeth aligners from your mouth, rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will help remove any loose food particles and prevent them from drying onto the aligners.

1. 1. Use a mild soap or cleaning solution: Soak the aligners in a cleaning solution specifically designed for clear aligners or a liquid soap and warm water for 20 to 30 minutes. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the aligners.

1. 1. Brush gently: Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush the aligners, especially the hard-to-reach areas. Don’t use abrasive brushes or toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface of the aligners and create small crevices where bacteria can grow.

1. 1. Rinse again: After brushing, rinse the aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any soap or cleaning solution residue.

1. 1. Store properly: Always store your aligners in their case when they are not in use. This will help prevent damage and keep them clean.

1. 1. Avoid harsh chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or hot water to clean your aligners, as they can damage the surface and compromise their effectiveness.

By following these best practices, you can keep your Invisalign retainers clean, fresh, and bacteria-free.

Natural Solutions For Cleaning Invisalign Retainers at Home

While there are products available from your orthodontist for cleaning your retainers at home—like cleaning crystals or a retainer cleaning solution—there are also some natural methods of cleaning that can be just as effective.

Here are some natural solutions for cleaning Invisalign retainers at home:

1. 1. Vinegar and Water Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and lukewarm water in a bowl. Soak your Invisalign retainers in the vinegar solution for 20 to 30 minutes, then gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a retainer brush. Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water and dry them with a soft cloth or let them air dry.

1. 1. Hydrogen Peroxide and Water: Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water in a small bowl or cup. Soak the retainers in the solution for 20 to 30 minutes, then gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush or retainer brush. Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water and dry them with a soft cloth or let them air dry.

1. 1. Baking Soda and Water Paste: If your retainers look discolored, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your Invisalign retainers, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub them gently. Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water and dry them with a soft cloth or let them air dry.

1. 1. Lemon Juice and Water Solution: Mix equal parts of fresh lemon juice and lukewarm water in a bowl. Soak your Invisalign retainers in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse them with lukewarm water and dry them with a soft cloth or let them air dry.

Other Tips for Maintaining Your Retainers

In addition to regularly cleaning your retainers, it’s important to keep them away from extreme temperatures, including hot water. Don’t leave them in a hot car or by a hot stove, as the heat could warm them.

Retainers are also very sensitive to staining agents like coffee, cigarettes, and tea. Do not wear your Invisalign retainers when eating or drinking anything other than water. Lastly, if you experience any discomfort due to wearing your retainers, be sure to contact your orthodontist for assistance with proper placement and care.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning Your Invisalign Retainers

There are a few things you should avoid when cleaning your retainers in order to prevent them from damage. These include:

• • hot water

• • extreme temperatures

• • denture cleaners

• • scented soaps

• • colored soap

• • mouthwash (especially formulas that contain alcohol)

• • coarse bristle-brushes

Have Questions About Your Invisalign Retainers? Contact Discovery Dental Shelby!

Maintaining your healthy smile is important to your oral health, and that includes taking care of your Invisalign retainers! Discovery Dental Shelby has the answers to all of your questions and can provide you with the professional advice you need. With years of experience in providing patients with exceptional dental care, we can provide a custom Invisalign plan tailored to your needs.  Reach out today for stress-free guidance regarding all of your Invisalign questions!