Ensure a Successful Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign in Kirkland is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, especially when provided by a dentist like Dr. Roberts. One of the key benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, making it easy to maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment.
However, it’s important to properly clean and care for your Invisalign clear aligners to ensure they stay clean, odor-free, and free of bacterial buildup. By following these tips from our Kirkland Invisalign provider, you can help ensure a successful and comfortable treatment experience. Call (425) 284-0515 to learn more. We also welcome patients from Redmond, Bellevue, and Bothell.
Why Choose Dentiste For Local Invisalign Care?
Our Kirkland office is easily accessible for patients from surrounding areas like Redmond, Bellevue, and Bothell, making your Invisalign journey convenient and stress-free. We prioritize clear communication and a welcoming environment, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your treatment.
Call (425) 284-0515 to schedule your Invisalign consultation and discover why Dentiste is the trusted choice for local Invisalign care in Kirkland and the greater Eastside.
How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners
Rinsing Aligners
Before you put your Invisalign aligners back in your mouth, rinse them off thoroughly. Rinse them under cold water to remove any saliva or food particles that may be on them. You should also rinse your mouth out before putting them back in. This will help remove bacteria or food particles from your teeth or gums.
Brushing Your Teeth
When brushing your Invisalign clear aligners, it’s essential to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. You don’t want to use anything too harsh that could scratch or damage them. Gently brush your aligners, just as you would your teeth. Be sure to rinse them off thoroughly with cold water afterward.
Soak Your Aligners
In addition to rinsing and brushing, you can also use a cleaning solution to help keep your Invisalign aligners clean. Most dentists recommend using a clear, antibacterial soap with lukewarm water. Mix a small amount of soap with water and soak your aligners in the solution for around 15 minutes.
Rinse them off thoroughly afterward to remove any leftover soap residue. Never use bleach or other hard chemicals to clean your aligners. These can damage the plastic and make it more visible. Your Kirkland Invisalign provider may also recommend using Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Dry Aligners Properly
When not in use, for example during meal times, keep the clear aligners in a case and let them air dry. Avoid using a cloth as it can leave lint or other particles behind on your aligners.
Aligner Inspection
Before reinserting, inspect your Invisalign clear aligners for any calcium or tartar buildup that can appear as a cloudy white film. If you see this, you may need a specialized product or help from your orthodontist to remove it.
Caring for Your Teeth with Invisalign
Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When using Invisalign, it’s essential to take extra care of your teeth to prevent cavities and other dental problems.
To maintain excellent oral health during Invisalign treatment, do the following:
- Brush Twice Daily: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damaging your teeth and gums.
- Floss Daily: Floss your teeth to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth. This will help prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Use Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. This will help reduce the buildup of plaque and prevent bad breath.
Other Maintenance Guidelines for Invisalign
Here are some additional tips and tricks on Invisalign care that can help you get the most out of your treatment:
- Wear your Invisalign trays for at least 22 hours to ensure the best results. Unlike traditional braces, you can eat and drink what you’d like. Just be sure to always remove your clean Invisalign trays before consuming food or drink. The only exception is water.
- Use a retainer case. When you remove your aligners, store them in a retainer case to prevent loss or damage.
- Use the right cleaning tools. Never use colored or scented soaps because they can discolor your aligners. You should also avoid toothpaste with whitening agents, as these can cause buildup and cloudiness on the aligners.
- Schedule regular checkups with Dr. Stevie Roberts. Regular visits with our Invisalign provider are essential to monitor your progress and ensure your treatment is on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Invisalign Cleaning Crystals are safe for cleaning clear aligners and retainers when used as directed, as they’re made with non-toxic ingredients like sodium sulfate and sodium carbonate that effectively remove plaque and bacteria. They’re specifically formulated to prevent discoloration and odors without damaging the aligner material. Always follow the instructions and avoid ingesting the crystals, keeping them out of reach of children and pets.
To use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals:
- Rinse your aligners under lukewarm water.
- Place them in a container with 100 ml of warm water and add one packet of crystals.
- Stir or shake gently for 20 seconds to dissolve.
- Let the aligners soak for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush to remove any residue before wearing.
The best way to clean Invisalign aligners is by using Invisalign Cleaning Crystals daily for a deep clean, soaking for 15 to 30 minutes, followed by gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Alternatively, brush aligners with mild, non-abrasive toothpaste or antibacterial soap, rinsing thoroughly to avoid residue. Avoid hot water, mouthwash, or denture cleaners, as they may damage or dull the aligners.
The Invisalign Ultrasonic Cleaner Powered by Zima Dental is highly recommended, using 42,000 Hz ultrasonic waves for a non-abrasive, deep clean in just 5 minutes. It effectively removes stains and plaque, especially when paired with Invisalign Cleaning Crystals. Its compact design and secure lid make it ideal for home use.
To clean your Invisalign case, rinse it daily with lukewarm water and wipe it with a soft cloth or brush using mild dish soap to remove bacteria and debris. For a deeper clean, soak the case in a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Make sure to avoid hot water or harsh chemicals to prevent any damage.
Contact Our Kirkland Dentist for Your Invisalign Treatment Plan
You deserve to have a comfortable, stress-free treatment process, and that starts with proper care for your Invisalign aligners. Don’t wait another day to take action.
Contact our Kirkland dental office at (425) 284-0515 to learn more about caring for your Invisalign aligners and taking the first step toward the smile of your dreams. We also welcome patients from Redmond, Bellevue, and Bothell.