Cleaning Your Aligners Is Much Easier Than You Think
Aligners are an excellent option for the straightening of your teeth. For one, they are typically much affordable than the traditional teeth straightening options. Invisible aligners are also, as the name implies, more visual discrete compared to the other choices.
You must follow a regular cleaning routine for your aligners. Clean your aligners every time you remove them from the mouth. The basic cleansing process of aligners include:
- Rinsing your aligners thoroughly after removing.
- Brushing the aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, clear liquid soap. Avoid using the toothbrush that you use to brush your teeth.
- Rinse the aligners properly after brushing to get rid of the soap.
- The aligners are ready for use again.
- Store the aligners in a protective case in case you are not using them.
Another great thing about invisible aligners is how easy they are to clean. If you are stressed about how to clean your invisible aligners, you will be more comfortable after reading this blog because the process is very simple and quick. The end result is that your aligners will be well-preserved and able to straighten your teeth with the minimum fuss.
If you are wondering how to clean invisible aligners, there is not only one best way to clean them. Practically speaking, they are all easy. Here are some of the choices you have.
Use Cleaner
This is perhaps the easiest way to clean your aligners. All you have to do is get some aligner cleaner and add it to a cup of water. Then, remove the aligner from your mouth and put it into the cup of water.
Let them soak for 15 – 20 minutes. After completion of time, you will have clean aligners ready to put back into your mouth. While you might be skeptical, it really is that easy.
Baking Soda and Water
If you don’t want to buy aligner cleaner, baking soda and water will achieve the same results. Baking soda is a well-known cleaning agent with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. People will often use it as a substitute for mouthwash, so it is an effective way to clean dental appliances.
All you need is a tablespoon of baking soda and some water. Mix the baking soda with a half cup of water. The soaking time is a little more than with aligner cleaner, but your aligner should be all clean and good to go in just about an hour.
Soap and Water
Liquid soap and water can also do the same job and will disinfect your aligner. All you need is a little bit of soap and 20 to 30 minutes of soaking time. Make sure that you rinse your aligner off well before you put it back into your mouth so that you don’t end up tasting the soap.
What cleansers should you avoid?
Not every cleanser is gentle on the aligners, some of them are harsh and can damage the aligners. The following should be avoided for cleaning the aligners:
- Denture cleaners
- Mouthwashes as they consist of alcohol
- Scented or strong smelling soaps
- Toothpaste
- Cleansing soaps with dyes
Choose Your Cleaner Carefully
While you have many choices among the type of aligner cleaners to use, make sure that the one you ultimately select is not an abrasive cleaner. The wrong type of substance can damage your aligner. For example, toothpaste has abrasive qualities, so you should not attempt to brush your aligner like you would your teeth.
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