Invisalign has taken the world of modern dentistry by storm and has helped 12 million patients and counting achieve a healthier and straighter smile. If you’ve just jumped on the Invisalign bandwagon yourself, congratulations! You’re one step closer to the smile of your dreams—but only if your treatment is a success! And part of Invisalign’s success is dependent on your ability to keep your trays clean and resilient. Keep reading to learn more about how to use Invisalign cleaning crystals to do this and ensure that your trays remain discreet and effective.
How To Use the Cleaning Crystals
To properly use your Invisalign cleaning crystals, follow these steps:
- Carefully remove your aligners and rinse them with lukewarm (not hot) water.
- Place your aligners in a clean container, filling it with enough water to fully submerge them.
- Add one packet of Invisalign cleaning crystals to the water.
- Gently shake/mix the solution to distribute the crystals.
- Let your aligners soak in the solution for roughly 15 minutes, ideally while you’re eating or brushing your teeth as to not interfere with the mandatory 22-hour-a-day wear time.
- Rinse your aligners with clean, lukewarm water before putting them back in your mouth.
How Often Should the Cleaning Crystals Be Used?
You shouldn’t need to use your cleaning crystals on a daily or even weekly basis—rather, use them when your aligners are beginning to look a bit discolored or are starting to smell. Your Invisalign welcome box should contain enough cleaning crystals to get you through the first few months of your treatment; your orthodontist can provide you with more if necessary. It’s important to note that you should NOT use household items, including bleach, as a substitute for your cleaning crystals. Not only do many household products contain toxic chemicals that can make you ill, but they can also damage your aligners!
Additional Tips for Keeping Your Aligners Clean
Keeping your aligners clean is crucial for the success of your Invisalign treatment. That said, consider the following tips to ensure that they remain clear and effective:
- Rinse your aligners every time you remove them and before you put them back in your mouth.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth twice a day. Also floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Never eat or drink anything while you’re wearing your aligners—the only exception to this rule is water.
- Always store your aligners in their storage case if they aren’t being worn or cleaned.
- Use your cleaning crystals when your trays begin to look stained.
Remember, your Invisalign cleaning crystals are not meant to act as a substitute for brushing your teeth; continue to practice regular oral hygiene throughout your treatment and only use your cleaning crystals as needed. That said, using them properly will ensure that your trays remain clear and clean and able to do their job!
About the Practice
The team at Salmon Brook Dental is proud to provide patients and families in the Granby area with an elite level of dental care under the leadership of Dr. Kenneth Endres and Dr. Gunveen Chawla! Both Dr. Endres and Dr. Chawla have several years of experience and expertise in a wide variety of fields and their practice is pleased to offer several available services, including Invisalign! If you have any questions about Invisalign or would like to schedule an appointment, feel free to visit the practice’s website or give them a call at (860) 653-4551.