How to Keep Your Invisalign® Trays Crystal Clear: Tips from Mellert Dental Associates
Keeping Invisalign trays clean and stain-free is paramount when you opt for Invisalign trays as your path to a perfect smile. At Mellert Dental Associates in Torrance, CA, we understand the importance of maintaining the invisibility of your Invisalign trays (after all, next to their comfort and versatility, that is their best perk). Here’s our expert advice on how to keep your trays as invisible as they were on day one.
Understanding Invisalign Tray Stains
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand what causes staining. Invisalign trays can become discolored due to certain foods, beverages, and smoking. Dark-colored substances are the usual culprits – think coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato-based sauces. Clear aligners will stain, just like plastic food containers, clothing, and even your natural pearly whites! If a food, drink, or practice can stain your clothing, it can also stain your Invisalign!
Daily Cleaning Is Key
Cleaning your Invisalign trays on a regular schedule is essential to prevent stains. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a clear, gentle liquid soap or an approved Invisalign cleaning solution. Avoid colored soaps or those with fragrances, as they can deposit residue on your trays. Gently brush the entire surface of the trays, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, and let them dry before popping them back in. If you have more questions on soaps and cleaning solutions, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Houck and her team at Mellert Dental Associates!
Rinse After Removal
Each time you remove your trays to eat or drink, rinse them under water to remove saliva and plaque that could cause staining. A quick rinse can go a long way in preventing stains from setting in. Removing this residue from your treatment will also protect your teeth from exposure to bacteria that can hurt your teeth and gums.
Avoid Stain-Causing Substances
It’s best to remove your Invisalign trays when consuming anything other than water. This simple habit can protect your trays from potential staining agents. Be mindful of what you eat and drink, and take your trays out when in doubt. As we said above, if it can stain your clothing, it can probably stain your clear aligners!
Embrace the Right Tools
Consider using cleaning crystals or tablets designed explicitly for Invisalign trays. These products can help remove plaque and prevent discoloration that some ordinary gentle liquid soaps cannot get. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results, and consult a dental or orthodontic professional with any questions you might have!
Steer Clear of Hot Water
Never use hot water to clean your Invisalign trays. High temperatures can warp the plastic, affecting the fit and, therefore, the effectiveness of your treatment, not to mention making them more susceptible to stains. Hot drinks like tea and coffee are also essential to avoid, as they can stain and destroy your clear aligners.
The No-No's of Invisalign Care
Avoid using toothpaste or colored mouthwash to clean your trays, as these products can be abrasive and cause scratches where bacteria and stains can lodge. Also, avoid harsh chemicals, like bleach, which can damage the trays and cause serious health issues/emergencies.
Regular Dental Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is your best defense against staining. Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your trays to minimize the risk of trapping stain-causing particles. Invisalign treatment aims to improve the look and feel of your smile and develop an oral landscape for a lifetime of improved dental health.
Storage Matters
Store your Invisalign trays in a clear, protective case when you’re not wearing them. This will prevent them from gathering dust and other staining agents.
Professional Advice
Last but not least, keep up with your dental appointments. Regular check-ups at Mellert Dental Associates allow us to monitor your progress and provide personalized advice on caring for your Invisalign trays. Also, you can share updates, ask questions, and see when your next set of clear aligners are available using the MyInvisalign App for Android and iOS!
Book an Invisalign Appointment at Mellert Dental Associates Today
Remember, your commitment to these practices plays a significant role in the success of your Invisalign treatment. For more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to contact us at Mellert Dental Associates in Torrance, CA. We’re here to guide you towards achieving that brilliant, healthy smile with clear Invisalign trays!
