Invisalign Maintenance: How to Keep Your Aligners Clean and Effective

Invisalign Maintenance: How to Keep Your Aligners Clean and Effective

Post by : Dr. James Connan BChD GDC No. 230670 | 25 April 2025

Invisalign has become one of the most popular orthodontic treatments for straightening teeth without the need for metal braces. Designed for comfort and discretion, Invisalign aligners offer a convenient solution, but only when properly maintained. Whether you’re just starting your Invisalign journey or well into your treatment, understanding how to care for your aligners is key to achieving the best results.

Patients across Surrey are embracing Invisalign not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its flexibility. Still, aligner hygiene and daily care can directly impact your progress and oral health.

Why Invisalign Maintenance Matters

Invisalign aligners are worn for 20–22 hours a day, so they come into frequent contact with your teeth, gums, and saliva. If not cleaned properly, aligners can harbour bacteria, cause odours, stain easily, and even contribute to tooth decay. The British Orthodontic Society notes that aligners should be kept clean to ensure both hygiene and effectiveness throughout the treatment (British Orthodontic Society, 2023).

Daily Cleaning Routine

To keep your Invisalign aligners fresh and clear, it’s essential to clean them every morning and evening, and after every meal when possible.

Here’s a simple daily routine:

🪥 Rinse – Always rinse your aligners with lukewarm water when removing them. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.

🧼 Brush – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive, unscented soap to gently brush the aligners. Avoid using toothpaste, which can be too harsh.

💧 Soak – Consider soaking your aligners once a day using Invisalign cleaning crystals or an orthodontist-approved solution to eliminate bacteria and odours.

🫧 Avoid coloured or scented soaps, which can leave residue or affect the clarity of your trays.

For added hygiene, the NHS recommends maintaining good oral health by brushing your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners to avoid trapping food particles or acids against your teeth (NHS, 2023).

What to Avoid

❌ Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water while wearing your aligners.
❌ Avoid using mouthwash on aligners, it may contain dyes or alcohol that damage the plastic.
❌ Don’t wrap your aligners in tissue or place them loosely in your pocket. Always use your case to store them.

Handling Aligners on the Go

If you’re out and about in Surrey, it’s easy to fall out of routine. To stay on track, carry a compact Invisalign kit with:

✔ A travel toothbrush and toothpaste
✔ Your aligner case
✔ A small bottle of water or mouth rinse
✔ Sugar-free gum or mints (for fresh breath after eating, before reinserting)

The Oral Health Foundation advises that prolonged periods without aligners can reduce treatment effectiveness and delay results (Oral Health Foundation, 2023). So if you remove them to eat or drink, don’t forget to clean and replace them as soon as possible.

Professional Support and Monitoring

Regular dental check-ups are essential during your Invisalign treatment. At Surbiton Dental, our team provides ongoing monitoring to ensure your aligners are fitting correctly and that your oral hygiene remains optimal throughout. With professional guidance, you’ll stay on track for your ideal smile.

📍 If you’re considering Invisalign or need support with your current treatment in Surrey, we’re here to help.

📞 Book your Invisalign consultation at Surbiton Dental today
🔗 www.surbitondental.co.uk