Starting Invisalign is an exciting step towards achieving a straighter, more confident smile. But while your aligners are working hard to move your teeth, they also need the right care to stay clean, clear and comfortable.
At London City Smiles, we want to help you get the most from your Invisalign treatment. Here are some simple tips to keep your aligners in excellent condition throughout your treatment.
1. Clean Your Aligners Every Day
Your Invisalign aligners should be cleaned regularly to remove bacteria, plaque and any build-up that can cause unpleasant odours or affect their appearance.
Gently clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using very hot water, as heat can potentially distort the plastic and affect the fit.
2. Always Remove Your Aligners Before Eating
One of the great benefits of Invisalign is that you can remove your aligners when eating and drinking.
Before having a meal or snack, take your aligners out and place them safely in their case. Eating while wearing your aligners can stain or damage them and may allow food particles to become trapped against your teeth.
The exception is plain, cool or lukewarm water, which you can drink while wearing your aligners.
3. Brush Your Teeth Before Putting Them Back In
After eating, brush your teeth before replacing your aligners whenever possible. This helps prevent food debris and bacteria from becoming trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
If you cannot brush immediately, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water before putting your aligners back in.
4. Keep Your Aligners in Their Case
When your aligners aren’t in your mouth, keep them in their protective case.
Avoid wrapping them in a tissue or leaving them loose on a table. Aligners can easily be mistaken for rubbish or accidentally thrown away. Keeping them in their case also helps protect them from damage and contamination.
5. Avoid Hot Water
This is one of the simplest but most important tips.
Never clean or soak your Invisalign aligners in hot or boiling water. Excessive heat can change the shape of the plastic, which may affect how your aligners fit.
Stick to cool or lukewarm water when cleaning them.
6. Don’t Use Abrasive Products
Your aligners are designed to be discreet, so keeping them clear is important.
Avoid using abrasive toothpaste or harsh cleaning products unless your dental professional has specifically recommended them. These can scratch the surface of your aligners, making them look cloudy.
7. Remember to Wear Your Aligners as Directed
For Invisalign treatment to work effectively, your aligners need to be worn according to your dentist’s instructions. Most patients are advised to wear their aligners for around 20–22 hours a day, removing them mainly for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing and cleaning.
The more consistently you follow your personalised treatment plan, the easier it is to stay on track.
8. Never Leave Your Aligners Exposed
When you’re not wearing your aligners, don’t leave them on a bedside table, in a pocket or somewhere they can easily be damaged.
Pets can also be surprisingly interested in aligners! Keep your case somewhere safe and out of reach of curious pets.
9. Look After Your Teeth, Too
Looking after your aligners is only half of the equation. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout your Invisalign treatment is equally important.
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth regularly and attend your scheduled dental appointments.
10. Contact Your Dentist If Something Doesn’t Feel Right
If an aligner becomes cracked, damaged or unusually uncomfortable, don’t simply stop wearing it without advice.
Contact your Invisalign dentist for guidance. They can advise you on the best next step and help ensure your treatment stays on track.
Keep Your Invisalign Treatment on Track
Taking a few extra minutes each day to care for your aligners can make a big difference to your Invisalign experience. Clean them regularly, remove them before eating, store them safely and follow the wearing instructions provided by your dental team.
If you’re considering Invisalign or would like advice about your current treatment, the team at London City Smiles is here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.