Proper oral hygiene is an essential part of any successful orthodontic treatment. When you get your Invisalign aligners, you will need to keep both them and your mouth clean. Your diligence will reward you with a fresh smile that is at a low risk of decay, gum disease, unpleasant odors, and other issues. Invisalign cleaning crystals may play an important role in your oral hygiene routine. What exactly are the crystals, and how should you use them? This basic guide explains.
What Are Invisalign Cleaning Crystals?
Invisalign cleaning crystals were designed by the Invisalign brand to help patients keep their aligners clean. The crystals come in small, convenient packets that you can use virtually anywhere that you have access to water and a cleaning container. They can dissolve plaque and kill bacteria so your aligners stay as sanitary and beautiful as possible.
How to Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Here is a step-by-step overview of how to use the cleaning crystals:
- Take your aligners out of your mouth and rinse them under warm tap water.
- Place some warm water in a glass or small container and dissolve an entire packet of cleaning crystals. You might have to do a bit of stirring to get the crystals to dissolve.
- Submerge your aligners in the water and let them soak for at least 15 – 20 minutes.
- Remove your aligners from the water and thoroughly rinse them. It would also be a good idea to gently brush them before placing them back in your mouth.
You can use the cleaning crystals once a twice a day.
Alternatives to Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Invisalign cleaning crystals work very well, but some patients hesitate to purchase them because they can seem a bit pricey. Fortunately, you do not have to use them for your treatment to be a success. There are a number of other products that can be used to keep your aligners clean and in great shape:
- Denture cleaners. You can use denture cleaners similarly to how you would use Invisalign-brand cleaning crystals.
- Hydrogen peroxide. Make a 1:1 solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Soak the aligners for 30 minutes before thoroughly rinsing and brushing.
- Distilled white vinegar. Make a solution that is one part vinegar and three parts water. Let your aligners soak for about 15 minutes before you thoroughly rinse them and brush them. (Be sure that you only use distilled white vinegar. Other types of vinegar might stain your aligners.)
It’s pretty easy to keep your Invisalign aligners clean! Use cleaning crystal or another reliable product to soak them daily so they remain fresh and functional.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Tamara Jones and Megan Hanson are experienced dental professionals who are proud to provide the Richardson community with comprehensive orthodontic services. If you have questions about how you can enjoy successful Invisalign treatment, our team would be happy to speak with you. Get in touch with our office at 972-238-7101.