Maintaining pristine Invisalign® aligners is essential for both your oral health and the effectiveness of your treatment. If you’ve recently started your Invisalign® treatment journey, you might be wondering about the best way to keep those clear aligners fresh and clean. That’s where Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals come in— and learning how to use Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals properly can make all the difference in keeping your trays clear, odor-free, and bacteria-free.!

Today, we’re sharing our step-by-step guide on using Invisalign® cleaning crystals to maintain your aligners in tip-top condition.

What Are Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals?

Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals are a specialized cleaning product developed by the Invisalign® brand specifically for their clear aligners. These crystals contain active ingredients like Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate that work together to remove plaque buildup and eliminate harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

The cleaning crystals also contain essential mint oil, giving your Invisalign® trays a fresh taste while keeping retainers odor-free. Unlike some denture cleaners that can damage your aligners, Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals are specially formulated to be safe for daily cleaning of your Invisalign® aligners.

How to Use Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

Using Invisalign® cleaning crystals is straightforward once you know what you’re doing. Here’s our comprehensive Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals instructions to make your cleaning routine quick and effective:

Step 1: Remove aligners

First, take out your Invisalign® aligners and rinse them under warm running water to remove excess saliva and any loose food particles.

Step 2: Prepare your cleaning container

Fill your cleaning container with enough warm water to completely submerge your aligners. It’s important to use lukewarm water—hot water can warp your Invisalign® trays!

Step 3: Add the cleaning crystals

Open a packet of Invisalign® cleaning crystals and pour the entire contents into the warm water. One packet of cleaning crystals is designed for a single cleaning session.

Step 4: Place aligners in the solution

Submerge your Invisalign® aligners in the mixture and let them soak for about 15 minutes. During this time, the cleaning crystals will work to dissolve food debris and kill harmful bacteria.

Step 5: Brush and rinse

After soaking, take out your aligners and gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any remaining plaque buildup. Rinse thoroughly under warm tap water until all crystal residue is gone.

Step 6: Your aligners are ready!

Pat your aligners dry with a clean tissue, and they’re ready to wear again! Your clear aligners should now be clean, clear, and fresh-tasting.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Regular use of Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals as part of your daily cleaning process is vital for several reasons:

  • Prevents discoloration of your clear aligners
  • Removes food particles that can cause bad breath
  • Eliminates harmful bacteria that could lead to tooth decay
  • Maintains the clarity of your Invisalign® trays
  • Extends the life of your aligners between changes

Alternative Cleaning Methods

While Invisalign® crystals are the recommended cleaning product, there are alternative cleaning methods in a pinch:

  • Gentle soap and water: A mild, clear soap can work for daily cleaning
  • Diluted hydrogen peroxide: A 1:1 solution with water can help disinfect aligners
  • Baking soda mixture: A paste made with water can help remove stains

However, these alternatives don’t provide the same level of cleaning power as the specially formulated Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals.

Where to Find Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

You can purchase packets of cleaning crystals directly from your dental provider, through Invisalign.com, or from authorized retailers across the United States. Many providers offer free shipping on cleaning supplies to help you maintain your oral health throughout your Invisalign® treatment.

Using Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

Keeping your Invisalign® aligners clean isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s an essential part of your dental care routine that contributes to the success of your treatment. By following this step-by-step guide on how to use Invisalign® cleaning crystals, you’re ensuring that your clear aligners remain hygienic, effective, and virtually invisible.

Remember, your journey to a beautiful smile is a partnership between you and your dental provider. If you have any questions about cleaning your Invisalign® aligners or need more packets of cleaning crystals, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to support you every step of the way!