Are you on the journey to the perfect smile? Most people who are, have an Invisalign retainer. This article should prove helpful if you have this retainer, as it covers what the Invisalign retainer does and its proper care.

You do not always need to wear braces to get a perfect smile. Braces can be uncomfortable to wear, and you may struggle to keep your teeth clean.

For many adults, Invisalign retainers are a good option for getting a straight smile. The retainer helps straighten teeth without worrying about wires and brackets in your mouth. In addition, your Invisalign retainers can easily slide off, making them ideal for brushing and flossing after meals.

You are guaranteed a good smile and excellent dental health with proper care and following your orthodontist’s instructions.

What Is the Difference Between Invisalign Retainers and Aligners?

Before you know how to clean your Invisalign retainer, you need to understand the difference between a retainer and an aligner.

Before starting your Invisalign therapy, your dentist will create a set of aligners. The aligners set your teeth and move them forward to their final straight position. Your dentist will recommend switching between different aligners every few weeks throughout the treatment.

After completing the alignment treatment, you will receive an Invisalign retainer to help keep your teeth in their new position. The retainers are clear plastic trays resembling the alignment trays you used before during treatment.

Do You Have To Clean Your Invisalign Retainers?

The short answer is yes. Your mouth is an ideal home for millions of bacteria and viruses. Without proper cleaning, your Invisalign can become a breeding ground for these bacteria leading to poor dental hygiene.

Secondly, your saliva has difficulty flowing when wearing the Invisalign retainer. It becomes challenging for the saliva to clean the underside of the retainer. Food particles can stick, causing plaque build-up.

In addition, a dirty retainer promotes tooth decay. As the bacteria and plaque grow between the Invisalign, your tooth enamel is at higher risk of eroding. You will notice an increase in cavity and tooth decay.

Thirdly, a dirty Invisalign retainer can lead to stained teeth. As waste builds up in your retainer, your teeth gradually develop stains and discoloration.

Furthermore, if you do not adequately clean your retainer, you increase the chances of getting a mouth infection. You will notice gum sensitivity, bleeding, and inflammation as the bacteria population grows within the retainer. You will develop severe dental complications and overall health problems if you do not get treatment.

Finally, you will suffer from bad breath. Halitosis (bad breath) is one of the indicators of poor dental hygiene. As the bacteria eat food remains and plaque, they produce a nasty odor that will manifest every time you open your mouth.

How to Clean Invisalign Retainers

Learning how to clean your Invisalign retainer will improve your dental health and enhance your journey to a straight smile. Here are some of the tips you should consider while cleaning your retainer:

Toothbrush

Never underestimate the power of your toothbrush. A toothbrush is an excellent and affordable way to keep your Invisalign clean.

Using a soft toothbrush and warm water, you can safely brush away any food particles and bacteria from your retainer’s surface. In addition, the toothbrush bristles can reach the small curves of the retainer for a thorough clean.

The soft toothbrush bristles reduce abrasions to the Invisalign for prolonged use and durability. Use colorless and odorless liquid soap with your toothbrush for a better cleaning experience.

Before you put the retainer back on, make sure to rinse the soap off thoroughly. Avoid using hot water when cleaning your retainer as it might warp and distort their fit.

Invisalign Cleaning System

If you are looking for another way to clean your retainers, you can get the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals and cleaning solution. The cleansing crystals and cleaning solution are ideal for everyday use to keep your retainers clean and fresh.

The cleansing crystals have antibacterial properties that prevent the build-up of germs and plaque. The cleaning solution also has disinfectant properties that ensure your Invisalign remains clean and keeps them bright all day.

To clean your retainer with the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, dissolve the crystals in a glass of water and let your retainer soak for about 15-30 minutes. Ensure you rinse the retainer with warm water before wearing them.

Hydrogen Peroxide

A hydrogen peroxide solution is another affordable alternative to the Invisalign cleaning solution. The solution will clean and disinfect any surface on your retainer.

All you need to do is add equal parts of hydrogen peroxide to water and stir thoroughly. Once you are done, drop your retainer into the solution and let it soak for about 15-30 minutes. Rinse the retainer thoroughly with water when you want to slip it back into your mouth.

Rinse Daily

It is essential to rinse your retainer daily. This helps prevent plaque build-up and bacteria from the lining of your Invisalign.

Care Tips For Invisalign Retainer

Brush and Floss Your Teeth

Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your retainer back on. This helps prevent the bacteria build-up and plaque around the Invisalign.

Do Not Use Toothpaste While Cleaning

Using toothpaste on your Invisalign can lead to discoloration. Do not use toothpaste when you clean your retainer.

Proper Storage

You need to choose the right place to store your retainer. Your storage container must be clean, sterile, and safe for your Invisalign. You do not want to expose it to any dirt or germs.

Remove Retainer During Meals Or Drinks

Should I Eat and Drink wearing my Invisalign Retainer? Eating or drinking while wearing your retainer can lead to discoloration and staining. Removing your retainer and keeping it somewhere safe when you are having your meals is always recommended.

We are dedicated to keeping your smile straight. If you have questions about having Invisalign treatment or how to take care of your dental health, do not hesitate to reach out to All About Smile Dental Group.