Clear aligners are a discreet way to straighten misaligned teeth for an even, aesthetically pleasing smile. However, to be effective, clear aligners must be worn for 22 hours daily, exposing them to food particles and bacteria, just like teeth.
So, keeping your clear aligners clean is essential to your orthodontic treatment. However, many wonder how to do so, as improper cleaning practices can damage them. In this blog, let’s learn how to clean clear aligners without damaging them.
Why do Clear Aligners need Cleaning?
Clear aligners require regular cleaning. They are exposed to saliva, food particles, and bacteria, which can cause unpleasant odors and plaque buildup. Like teeth, clear aligners require regular cleaning to protect oral health.
Clear aligners can become discolored without regular cleaning and cause potential oral health issues. They also have a shorter lifespan without regular sanitization due to plaque buildup. The good news is that keeping clear aligners clean is quite easy and can be incorporated into your oral hygiene routine.
The Right Way to Clean Clear Aligners
Keeping clear aligners clean is a straightforward process. It’s essential to rinse aligners under cold water each time you remove them; this simple step can help rinse off food residue and saliva.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with unscented antibacterial soap or a specialized aligner cleaner to delicately clean the aligners, just as you would your teeth. It’s advisable to use a separate toothbrush specifically for cleaning aligners.
To keep your aligners well-sanitized, soak them daily in commercial cleaning solutions, such as cleaning crystals or denture-cleaning tablets. Soak them for 15-30 minutes before thoroughly rinsing them with water.
A weekly deep cleaning with hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water can keep your aligners sparkling.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Clear Aligners
Due to their special material, clear aligners are comfortable for everyday wear. However, improper cleaning practices can damage them and require costly replacements. Here are some important factors to keep in mind to keep clear aligners clean.
- Avoid Toothpaste
Toothpaste contains abrasive particles that can scratch and cloud the plastic, so avoiding using it to clean clear aligners is essential. - Don’t Use Hot Water
Never clean your aligners with hot water, as it can warp the plastic and alter their fit. - Skip Mouthwash
Colored mouthwashes can tint your aligners, so avoiding them altogether is recommended during cleaning. If you do use mouthwash, opt for colorless and alcohol-free varieties. - Do Not Use Vinegar
While vinegar is a common cleaning agent, its acidity can damage the material of the aligners over time. - Avoid Baking Soda
While baking soda is often considered a mild cleaner, it is also mildly abrasive and can scratch the surface of the aligners. - Don’t Leave Aligners Exposed
Don’t leave aligners unprotected when not in use. They should be stored in a protective case. Without proper storage, aligners are exposed to air, which leads to dust accumulation and bacterial growth.
Takeaway
Keeping clear aligners clean requires balancing proper cleaning techniques with avoiding common mistakes that can damage their integrity. Regular cleaning and soaking in appropriate solutions can keep clear aligners sanitary and fit for use.
If you want to learn more about caring for your clear aligners, contact the Bayside Dental & Orthodontics dental experts. We can provide clear aligners suitable for correcting various misalignment issues. Call (979) 330-4113 to schedule an appointment.