How Do I Clean My Invisalign Aligners Properly?
Meet Dr. Stacie Morrison
Dr. Stacie Morrison, a proud Wyoming native, grew up in Cheyenne and began her journey in dentistry at the University of Wyoming before earning her dental degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry. After practicing in her hometown for several years, she realized her heart belonged in Laramie's warm, close-knit community. Fueled by a dream to build her dental practice, she returned to Laramie to create a space where personalized, compassionate care thrives.
Beyond the dental chair, Dr. Morrison enjoys life with her husband Jake and their two sons, Lincoln and Lachlan. You'll often find her cheering on local teams, from Laramie High School to her alma mater, the University of Wyoming. A former college cheerleader herself, Dr. Morrison now channels that same spirit into helping patients achieve confident, healthy smiles, especially through her passion for Invisalign!
Introduction
Invisalign is more than just a modern solution for crooked teeth. It's a commitment to your smile. But getting those beautifully aligned teeth doesn't just depend on wearing your trays. Keeping them clean plays a huge role, too.
At Summit View Dentistry, Dr. Stacie Morrison, a Gold Invisalign Provider, believes that knowing how to clean your Invisalign aligners properly is just as important as wearing them correctly.
Let's explore why cleaning matters, what you should do daily, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Your Invisalign Journey at Summit View Dentistry
Every Invisalign treatment at Summit View Dentistry starts with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Morrison. After this initial appointment:
You'll be scheduled for a scan, pictures, and X-rays.
Dr. Morrison will map out your smile using ClinCheck, a 3D animation that shows how your teeth will move.
While most Invisalign cases take around 11 months, Dr. Morrison uses advanced techniques that allow many patients to finish in 6 months.
Once you approve your plan, you'll receive your first set of aligners. You will wear them all day and night, taking them out only for cleaning and brushing your teeth.
Each case is personalized. Dr. Morrison may recommend IPR (polishing between teeth) to create small spaces for crowded teeth, or add attachments (tooth-colored dots on certain teeth) to help guide the aligners.
You'll be given multiple trays at once and only need to return for a few short monitoring visits. Once your treatment is complete, you'll receive retainers and be advised to wear them full-time for three months, then nightly, to maintain your results. Follow Invisalign aligner cleaning tips with Dr. Stacie Morrison for the best hygiene throughout your journey.
Why Keeping Aligners Clean Is So Important
Keeping your aligners clean is not just about appearance. Here's why it matters:
Prevents bad breath
Reduces bacterial buildup
Keeps aligners clear and stain-free
Helps avoid gum irritation and tooth decay
Supports effective tooth movement
If your aligners are dirty, it affects your entire mouth. Think of them like a clear second skin over your teeth. If they're not clean, neither are your teeth. Discover how to clean your Invisalign aligners properly with Dr. Stacie Morrison to keep your trays and smile fresh and healthy.
Your Daily Invisalign Cleaning Routine
Here's what you should do daily to keep your aligners in top shape. For more information on Invisalign cleaning tips, check out this article.
1. Rinse Every Time You Take Them Out
Always rinse your aligners with lukewarm water whenever you remove them. This helps wash away saliva and prevents buildup.
2. Brush and Floss Before Reinserting
Before putting your aligners back in, brush and floss your teeth. This keeps food and plaque from getting trapped inside the trays.
3. Use a Soft Toothbrush and Clear Soap
Gently brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap. Do not use the same brush you use for your teeth.
4. Soak Them Once a Day
Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or a mild denture/retainer cleaner. Soak your aligners for 15 to 20 minutes, rinse them thoroughly, and pop them back in.
5. Store Properly
If your aligners are not in your mouth, they should be in their case. Make sure they are dry before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
What Not to Do
Many patients make small mistakes that can damage their aligners. Avoid these common habits:
Don't use hot water – it can warp the plastic
Don't use toothpaste – it's too abrasive and can scratch the surface
Don't use colored or scented soaps – they may stain or leave a residue
Don't use alcohol – based mouthwashes or strong cleaners
Don't leave aligners wrapped in napkins or tissues – they can be mistaken for trash
Invisalign at Summit View Dentistry: Built for Simplicity
Dr. Stacie Morrison has streamlined the Invisalign process for her patients. With her training and experience, she makes treatment faster and more comfortable. But keeping things clean at home is up to you. Follow Dr. Stacie Morrison's advice on cleaning Invisalign aligners to maintain progress and protect your smile.
With each new set of aligners, it's important to maintain the same level of cleanliness. This helps ensure the trays fit well, stay invisible, and move your teeth as planned.
Cleaning Invisalign Aligners After Attachments or IPR
If your treatment involves IPR or attachments:
Pay extra attention to the areas around attachments. Buildup around these spots can affect how well your aligners fit.
Be gentle when brushing the inside of your aligners to avoid damaging the shapes meant to fit over the attachments.
Use soft cleaning tools, and make sure you rinse your aligners thoroughly after each cleaning.Caring for Retainers After Treatment
Once you finish your Invisalign treatment, Dr. Morrison will provide you with retainers. These look and feel like your aligners, requiring the same care. Get tips for cleaning Invisalign aligners from Dr. Stacie Morrison to keep your retainers fresh and effective.
You should:
Rinse retainers after every removal
Brush gently once a day with a soft brush and clear soap
Soak in retainer cleaner weekly or as needed
Store them in a dry, ventilated case when not in use
Wearing retainers full-time for the first three months after treatment helps set your results and avoid any shifting.
Why Invisalign Hygiene Equals Invisalign Success
Dr. Morrison's advanced Invisalign methods mean her patients often finish treatment faster than expected. However, results only come when you follow all the guidelines, including cleaning.
Dirty aligners can:
Become discolored and visible
Carry harmful bacteria
Delay progress by affecting the fit
Create odor or discomfort
Increase your risk of cavities or gum inflammation
Proper cleaning is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment.
Cleaning on the Go: Staying Fresh While You're Out
Life doesn't pause for dental care; your aligner hygiene shouldn't either. Whether at work, school, or travelling, you can keep your Invisalign aligners clean with a little planning. For simple routines that work anywhere, follow Dr. Stacie Morrison's Invisalign cleaning guide and stay on track wherever you go.
Here's how:
Pack a Travel Kit: Include a compact toothbrush, travel-sized clear soap, floss, and aligner case. This makes it easy to rinse and clean your trays after meals.
Use Water Wisely: If brushing isn't possible, rinse your aligners and mouth thoroughly before putting them back in.
Avoid Napkin Wraps: Never wrap your trays in tissue or paper towels; they're too easily thrown away by accident. Always store them in your case.
Maintaining your Invisalign hygiene is completely doable, even when you're not at home. A few extra tools in your bag can keep your treatment on track and your trays crystal clear.
Remember This
Clean trays are essential for a healthy mouth and fast results.
Dirty aligners can lead to bacteria, odor, and poor fit.
Dr. Morrison will guide you, but daily care is your job.
FAQ's
1. Can I use toothpaste to clean my aligners?
No. Toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the surface, making trays appear cloudy.
2. How often should I clean my aligners?
You should rinse them after every removal and clean them with a brush at least once daily.
3. What can I soak my trays in?
Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or any gentle retainer-cleaning solution. Avoid mouthwash or bleach.
4. Do I clean retainers the same way as aligners?
Yes. Retainers should be cleaned daily with a soft brush and soap and soaked weekly in a cleaning solution.
Conclusion
Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is simple and doesn't take much time, but it makes a difference. Clean trays lead to better comfort, clearer results, and healthier teeth. Dr. Stacie Morrison, a Gold Invisalign provider, and the Summit View Dentistry team are always here to support your Invisalign journey, but day-to-day care starts with you. Find out how to maintain your Invisalign aligners with Dr. Stacie Morrison and keep your treatment on track from start to finish.
Have questions about Invisalign care, or are you ready to start your smile journey? Call Summit View Dentistry at 307-460-2217 to schedule your visit today.
Disclaimer
This blog is only informational and does not replace professional dental advice. For personalized care and Invisalign treatment recommendations, consult directly with Dr. Stacie Morrison at Summit View Dentistry.