Toothpaste To Use With Invisalign (Can You Clean Invisalign With Toothpaste)

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign gave teeth alignment a new boast. Invisalign is made using clear plastic material, and therefore they are prone to get stained and smelly.

They can also develop bacteria which can further result in tooth decay and bad breath. Therefore it is important to keep Invisalign clean on a regular basis. But a question that many individuals commonly come up with is, “Can I clean Invisalign with toothpaste”?

Toothpaste is a readily available, affordable option for effectively cleaning Invisalign aligners. However, not all toothpastes are suitable for cleaning or even use with Invisalign aligners. Toothpastes that are formulated with heavy abrasives can damage or discolor your aligners. It, in the long run, can also compromise their effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.

Join us to learn more about Invisalign aligners and toothpaste that are safe to use with them.

What toothpaste is safe for Invisalign?

While selecting a toothpaste for cleaning Invisalign aligners, choosing a non-abrasive toothpaste is necessary. Toothpaste that is abrasive can scratch the surface of aligners. It can further make Invisalign susceptible to bacteria buildup and even discoloration.

some toothpaste that are safe to be used with Invisalign aligners. 

1. Clear Aligner Toothpaste which is formulated to use with clear aligners like Invisalign, is one popular choice. Toothpastes like these effectively remove bacteria and odor and are gentle on the aligners.
2. Mild Toothpaste that is free of any abrasive particles can effectively clean your teeth without damaging the surface of the aligners.
3. Whitening Toothpaste is another excellent option when choosing a safe toothpaste for Invisalign aligners. Aligners will hold fluoride and whitening compounds for longer, allowing the formulation to work effectively.
4. Prescription-Strength Fluoride Toothpaste helps in preventing tooth decay during your orthodontic treatment, including with Invisalign aligners.
5. Toothpaste with Baking Soda can effectively remove bacteria and odor while keeping Invisalign safe. However, it is important not to use it too frequently since Baking Soda can cause make the aligners cloudy over time.
6. Regenerated Advanced Toothpaste protects your teeth from enamel damage while on Invisalign treatment.

How to Clean Invisalign Trays/ Aligners?

Cleaning your Invisalign trays/ aligners is as important as cleaning your teeth and gums. Doing so is important to prevent bacteria and plaque building and maintain the clarity of Invisalign.

Here’s how you can clean your Invisalign Aligners/ Tray. 

• Firstly, take out the aligners from your mouth and rinse them either in lukewarm or cool water. Avoid using hot water since it can leave damage to the aligners.
• Now take a soft-bristled toothbrush, dip it in antibacterial soap, and gently scrub your Invisalign Aligners inside out.
• Rinse the Aligners again using lukewarm or cool water, ensuring the soap is removed nicely.
• Now place the Aligners in a cleaning solution and follow the instruction given with the product. Ask your Orthodontist for a cleaning solution.
• Lastly, rinse the aligners again, dry them using a soft towel, and put them back into your mouth.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning Invisalign Aligners

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts you should keep in mind when cleaning Invisalign aligners:

Do’s:

• Make sure you clean your aligners regularly, at least twice a day. Doing so is important to avoid bacterial buildup.
• Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your aligners, and make sure to use light pressure. Scrubbing harshly or with extra pressure can damage the aligners.
• Consider using a clear antibacterial soap to clean your aligners. You can also use half warm water and half hydrogen peroxide for effective cleaning.
• Do soak your aligners in a cleaning solution recommended by your Orthodontist.
• Always rinse your Invisalign aligners with cool or lukewarm water. Rinsing will help you clean your aligners from any kind of buildup or soap.

Don’ts:

• Never use hot water for cleaning/ soaking your aligners since it can damage the tool.
• Do not use abrasive toothpaste or any other toothpaste to clean your aligners. Harsh toothpaste can scratch the surface of your aligners and make them susceptible to bacterial buildup even more.
• Never use colored or scented soap in your aligners, as they can stain the tool or leave an unpleasant taste.
• Never expose your aligners to harsh chemicals like alcohol, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide.
• Avoid eating or drinking with your aligners, as it can cause staining and bacterial buildup.

Best Cleaners for Invisalign 2023

1. Dentibrite Crystals Cleaner for Removable Dental Appliances – Invisalign Aligners
2. INVISALIGN Aligner Cleaning Foam for Aligner Cleaning
3. INVISALIGN Cleaning Crystals for Clear Aligners
4. AlignerFresh Portable WhiteFoam Spray | Retainer & Invisalign Cleaner Spray
5. Voraiya® Ultrasonic UV Cleaner for Dentures, Aligner, Retainer, Whitening Trays

3 Ways to Clean Invisalign Aligners at home

Here are some DIY tips for cleaning your Invisalign aligners at home:

1. Take equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl and soak your Invisalign Aligners in it for 15 to 20 minutes. Later remove the aligners and rinse them in cold or lukewarm water. You can also use White Vinegar or Baking Soda instead of Hydrogen Peroxide. However, remember that none of these ingredients are safe to be used on Invisaligners for the long term.
2. Take a soft toothbrush, soak it in warm water, and squeeze a non-whitening toothpaste on it. Now brush your Invisalign aligners gently for 5 to 10 minutes, and later rinse them well.
3. Take a bowl of warm water and drop a denture cleaner tablet into it. Once the tablet dissolves, place your aligners into the bowl and allow them to soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Later rinse them and dry them using a clean microfiber towel.

Wrapping up…

Cleaning Invisalign with toothpaste is possible as long as you use the right toothpaste. When selecting toothpaste to clean Invisalign aligners, choose a non-abrasive toothpaste. Remember, a wrong selection can leave your Invisalign to irreversible damage. It is better to consult a dentist before using any solution/ toothpaste on your Invisalign as long as you do not want to compromise the effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of the aligners.