Whether you’re an adult who wants to improve your smile or the parent of someone who does, Eastern Virginia Orthodontics can help. We offer a range of treatments and types of braces that include Invisalign. When your aligners become stained, it can put you off from using them. You don’t need to replace the aligners, though, because it’s easy to clean stained Invisalign trays before you see a Norfolk orthodontist.
Use Branded Cleaners
The makers of Invisalign recommend you use official products, such as Invisalign cleaning crystals. You just mix the crystals with water and let your trays soak for up to 15 minutes. The crystals will not change the trays’ fit, feel, or taste but will keep them clean. Your Chesapeake Invisalign doctor can order the crystals for you.
Try Hydrogen Peroxide
An easy way to clean stains before your next appointment with a Norfolk orthodontist is a hydrogen peroxide soak. Combine three parts cold water with one part distilled white vinegar. Place your trays in a clean bowl and pour the mixture over the top of them. Let them soak for up to 20 minutes before you rub them down with a soft toothbrush. If the Invisalign trays still smell like vinegar, let them soak in freshwater or rinse them before you use them.
Consider Unscented Hand Soap
Unscented hand soap also works well to remove Invisalign stains. Stick with a clear soap, too, as colored soaps use dyes that can stick to the trays. Add a drop of soap to a brush and rub it over the trays, adding just enough water to create some foam. Make sure you rinse all of the substance away to avoid tasting the soap later.
What Should You Not Do?
Do not use either baking soda or toothpaste, no matter what you hear. Invisalign is one of the more costly types of braces, and you want to protect them. Using paste – even those made for sensitive teeth – is abrasive enough that it can scratch and damage your trays. Baking soda may worsen any calcium deposits you see and give the trays a chalky feel.
Take Care of Your Braces
As one of the leading choices for Chesapeake Invisalign patients, we want to help you get more out of your trays. You’ll use each set for quite a while before working your way to the next set. Contact us to order Invisalign cleaning crystals or if you have any questions before your next appointment.
