Posted on July 9, 2019
A Healthy Smile Is A Happy Smile : How To Properly Clean Your Invisalign Aligners
You did it! You made the big, super-smart decision to perfect your smile with Invisalign at Harnick Orthodontics. Now you’re probably wondering about what the best practices are to ensure that your Invisalign smile transformation happens as quickly and effectively as possible! Caring for your Invisalign aligners may be different than caring for traditional braces, but it’s definitely an easier process in many ways. Just get in the habit of cleaning your Invisalign aligners every time you brush your teeth, and you’re already on the road to success!
Here’s what you’ll need:
White toothpaste
Soft-bristle toothbrush or retainer brush
Denture cleaner or retainer cleaner
STEP 1: Rinse your aligners in lukewarm water.
Make sure the water you rinse your aligners in is not too hot or too cold, as this could distort their shape. If you’ve washed your aligners in too hot of water, take them to your orthodontist to make sure that they still fit properly.
STEP 2: Apply toothpaste in small, circular motions inside and out.
You can use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a special retainer brush for this step. To guarantee you clean them properly, brush the inside and outside of your aligners thoroughly.
STEP 3: Repeat Step 1 again!
Remember, if the water is too hot it could soften the plastic of the aligners, so make sure you’re still using lukewarm water only!
STEP 4: Inspect your aligners for calcium deposits.
Aligners, like your teeth, can develop calcium deposits and tartar buildup. This looks like a white film that won’t come off with brushing or lukewarm water. If you notice your aligners have either of these, just soak them at home in denture cleaner or special Invisalign aligner cleaner.
STEP 5: Place them back in your mouth, ir in their case to dry.
And guess what!? You’re already done. That’s it – caring for your Invisalign aligners truly is that simple!
It’s really important to remember to clean your Invisalign aligners often. Not cleaning your aligners properly can lead to foul-smelling breath, which is never fun for anyone. Also, if food particles get stuck in your aligners, it could lead to tooth decay and cavities. And let’s face it, that’s the last thing you want to happen to your teeth. Oh! One more thing: using mouthwash or toothpaste that is any color other than white or clear can stain your plastic, Invisalign aligners. So, it’s always a good rule of thumb to avoid mouthwash in general to clean your aligners and simply stick to white colored toothpaste.
If you have any other questions regarding Invisalign best practices or if you’re ready to get started on transforming your own smile subtly and conveniently through Invisalign, give Harnick Orthodontics a call today – we’re always here for you and your smile!
Cheers,
Drs. David and Kari Harnick
"Dear Patients,
I am writing to share an important update about our practice. After much thought and consideration, I have made the very difficult decision to consolidate our two locations into one main office at Montgomery Pkwy. This was not a decision I made lightly, as I know how important convenience and continuity are for our patients and families.
Please know that my patients remain my top priority, and I want to ensure that no one feels left without support during this transition. To help with this, I worked out an arrangement with the new owner of the Golf Course Rd. office that will allow me to continue seeing patients there for a period of time after the transition.
Appointments at the Golf Course office will be limited.
Preference will be given to patients who began treatment at the Golf Course location.
Over time, most patients will transition fully to our Montgomery Pkwy office.
This arrangement was made with you in mind—to provide continuity of care and make the transition as smooth as possible.
I want to thank you for trusting us with your orthodontic care. I am committed to seeing you through your treatment and look forward to continuing your journey at our Montgomery Pkwy location.
If you have any questions about scheduling or the transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.
With gratitude,
Kari Harnick Graeber DDS, MS
Harnick Orthodontics"
