Have you decided to use Invisalign to make corrections to the position of your teeth? If so, you were likely attracted to the procedure because of the plastic alignment trays that are nearly invisible to others. While those trays will get thrown away eventually, it's still important to keep them clean during the alignment process. Here are some tips that will help you get the job done.

Toothbrush And Toothpaste

Even though you should not be using Invisalign aligners to chew food, you are still putting them back into your mouth after eating all of your meals. This can cause bacteria to get stuck on the trays that you will be using for a couple of weeks. 

It's a good idea to brush the alignment trays with your toothbrush and toothpaste at the end of every single day. It will not only prevent the alignment trays from becoming stained over the length of your treatment but prevents bacteria from staying in your mouth right before you go to sleep.

Cleaning Tablets

There are also gentle cleaning tables that you can use to clean your alignment trays. All you need to do is fill a cup of water and insert one of the dissolving tablets. You then let the alignment trays soak in the solution for several minutes, then take out the trays and rinse them out under running water. It's something that you can do while you're brushing your teeth at night as part of your daily routine and helps get all surfaces of the alignment trays clean.

Cleansing Foam

Another method that is easy to use when you are away from home is cleansing foam. It works by spraying the foam directly on the aligners, letting the foam soak for a couple of minutes, and then rinsing them off with water. It allows you to clean the trays without needing any special tools, which can make it hard to do when traveling or at work. 

Ultrasonic Cleaner 

You can purchase an ultrasonic cleaner, which is a small device that you fill with mouthwash or plain water. You insert the alignment trays, turn the device on, and let it work for a couple of minutes to clean the trays. Rinse off the alignment trays when it is finished and insert them back into your mouth.

Looking for more tips on how you can keep your alignment trays clean? Reach out to your orthodontist for more information.