Razi Orthodontics is proud to be your resource for smiles, both in and out of the office. And taking care of your smile is all about taking care of your orthodontic equipment, at least when it comes to active treatment. So, what’s the 411 on keeping clear aligners clear? Let’s get into it!
Why Clean Aligners Matter for Your Treatment
Invisalign is designed to be subtle and low-key, but that only works if they stay clean. When not cared for properly, aligners can collect bacteria, develop odors, or start to stain, which defeats the purpose of a nearly invisible treatment. More importantly, dirty trays can interfere with your oral health and orthodontic progress. The good news? A few daily habits go a long way.
Plaque and bacteria build up fast
Just like your teeth, aligners are exposed to bacteria throughout the day. Trapped food particles, saliva, and natural bacteria create the perfect environment for plaque buildup—especially if aligners aren’t cleaned regularly. Without proper hygiene, this can lead to bad breath, irritation, or even cavities.
Keeping aligners clean helps maintain both your oral health and the comfort of your trays throughout treatment.
Stains can make trays visible
Clear aligners are popular for their discreet appearance—but staining can make them much more noticeable. Dark drinks, food residue, or improper cleaning can leave behind cloudy spots or discoloration that are hard to remove.
Once trays are stained, there’s no easy fix. Clean trays daily to preserve their transparency and keep your smile looking sharp.
Clean aligners = better breath and better results
Unwashed aligners can cause persistent bad breath and affect how comfortable your trays feel. More than that, poor hygiene can sometimes lead to inflamed gums or slow down treatment progress if dental issues arise mid-treatment.
A consistent cleaning routine is the simplest way to keep things moving forward—both visually and functionally.
Daily Cleaning Tips for Clear Aligners
A good cleaning routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The key is consistency. By following a few simple habits every day, you can keep your aligners fresh, clear, and odor-free without any added stress.
Rinse every time you remove them
Every time you take your aligners out—for meals, snacks, or brushing—give them a quick rinse with cool or lukewarm water. This helps prevent saliva and plaque from drying onto the surface. It also keeps buildup from becoming more difficult to remove later.
Even if you don’t have time for a full clean, rinsing is a quick, effective step that makes a big difference.
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste!)
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your aligners at least once a day. Gently brush the inside and outside of each tray with warm water and either mild soap or an approved aligner cleanser.
Avoid using toothpaste—it’s too abrasive and can scratch the plastic, making the trays cloudy or harder to keep clean over time.
If you’d like a deeper clean, use a non-scented, gentle soap or a cleaning solution designed specifically for aligners. There are many safe options that dissolve buildup without damaging the trays.
Be cautious with over-the-counter products—only use what your orthodontist recommends to avoid discoloration or residue.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Aligners
While keeping your aligners clean is important, how you clean them matters just as much. Some well-meaning habits can actually damage your trays, cause staining, or affect how well they fit. Here are a few cleaning pitfalls to steer clear of.
Don’t use hot water—it warps plastic
Clear aligners are made from thermoplastic material that can warp when exposed to high heat. Even mildly hot water can cause a subtle shift in shape, which can affect how well your trays fit—and how effectively they move your teeth.
Always use cool or lukewarm water when rinsing or cleaning your aligners. Never boil them, and avoid soaking them in water from a hot tap.
Avoid toothpaste—it scratches and clouds
Toothpaste might seem like a good cleaner, but it’s not designed for plastic. Most brands contain abrasives that can scratch the surface of your aligners, leaving behind tiny marks that trap bacteria and cause cloudiness over time.
Stick with non-abrasive soap, approved aligner cleaning tablets, or plain water for a safe clean.
Say no to colored or scented soaps
Scented soaps, especially those with dyes or strong ingredients, can leave behind residue that irritates your mouth or affects the taste of your aligners. Colored soaps can also stain or tint your trays.
Use a gentle, unscented hand or dish soap for best results—and rinse thoroughly before putting your trays back in.
Extra Tools to Keep Your Trays Sparkling
While a toothbrush and water get the job done for most people, there are a few extra tools that can take your aligner care routine to the next level. These options aren’t required—but they’re great add-ons for patients who want maximum clarity and hygiene.
Ultrasonic aligner cleaners
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to clean your trays without brushing. Just place your aligners in the machine with water (and a cleaning solution, if needed), and let it do the work.
These devices are especially helpful for patients who are prone to buildup or just want a deeper clean in less time.
Retainer cleaning tablets (approved brands only)
Dissolvable tablets made for aligners and retainers can be a convenient way to sanitize your trays. They’re great for occasional deep cleans or when your trays feel extra cloudy.
Just be sure to use a brand approved by your orthodontist—some over-the-counter options may be too harsh or leave behind residue.
Travel-friendly cleaning kits for on-the-go care
When you’re away from home, a small cleaning kit can make all the difference. Pack a soft toothbrush, your aligner case, and a few cleaning wipes or pre-portioned tablet packs to help you stick to your routine—even on the road.
A few minutes of care can help your aligners look and feel their best, no matter where you are.
Want More Tips? Give Us a Call!
Thanks so much for taking the time to learn more about keeping your Invisalign crystal clear. Need more tips? You’re in luck, since at Razi Orthodontics, consultations are always 100 percent free-of-charge! Whether you’re seeing us in Naperville or Wheaton, Dr. Razi and the whole team are ready and waiting to show you what your smile can do!