Invisalign is an effective orthodontic solution for straightening misaligned teeth, correcting an overbite, and treating other kinds of irregularities in the teeth or jaws. However, just because you already have your aligners made and have started wearing them, it does not automatically mean that your dental irregularities will be solved in an instant. For the treatment of Invisalign braces in Singapore to be effective, you still need to properly care for your invisible aligners.
Properly caring for your Invisalign braces includes knowing how to clean your aligners well. This is a legitimate consideration because failing to clean your aligners properly can make them look drab and discoloured. In cleaning your Invisalign braces, it is important that you use the right cleaning material or solution to avoid discolouration and damage. Listed below are some of the best and safest solutions you can use to clean your Invisalign aligners.
1. Unscented Liquid Soap and Water
Soap and water are the common combinations that you can wash your Invisalign braces with to keep them free from bacteria buildup. However, when choosing which soap to use, make sure to avoid the scented ones because they can leave a bitter taste. Unscented liquid soap stirred in a cup of warm water is already effective enough to clean your Invisalign braces on a regular basis.
2. Distilled Vinegar and Water
You probably know about the effectiveness of vinegar as an all-natural cleaner. So, it may not come as surprising news that vinegar and water are a great pair for cleaning Invisalign braces. By soaking your aligners in a mixture of distilled vinegar and water for about 20 minutes, you can already have your invisible braces cleaned as if they were new. After soaking, make sure to rinse your braces thoroughly to avoid a residual taste of vinegar.
3. Baking Soda and Water
Just like vinegar, baking soda is also an all-natural cleaning agent. However, using it to clean your Invisalign braces may require a bit of elbow grease. To clean your aligners with this solution, mix a tablespoon of baking soda into ½ cup of water until you create a consistent mixture. Then, place your aligners inside the mixture for about 60 minutes to achieve a perfectly clean look for your braces. Do not forget to brush and rinse to clear any residue.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
If you are looking for a cheap but guaranteed solution to clean your aligners, hydrogen peroxide is one of your best options. Hydrogen peroxide can be bought from any local drugstore. To create the cleaning solution for your braces, mix ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide with ½ cup of water. Then, soak your aligners in the mixture for around 20 minutes. After soaking, use a toothbrush to scrub away any debris and the solution. Make sure no residue remains, as it can be harsh on your enamel as well as your braces.
5. Retainer Cleanser
Professional retainer cleansers are available in many stores around the country. Most of them are in tablet or powder form and are dissolved in water to become effective cleaning solutions for orthodontic braces. To clean your aligners with this solution, simply soak them in a container of this mix for a couple of minutes. Then, remove any grime on your aligners using a clean toothbrush.
Although retainer cleansers are generally pricier than the DIY solutions mentioned here, many people still choose to clean their Invisalign braces with a retainer cleanser because it is considered very effective in targeting bacteria and stubborn plaque.
Conclusion
Keeping your aligners as clean as possible is the most important part of your Invisalign braces treatment. In Singapore, Invisalign braces cost a bit more than traditional ones, but they are sometimes equally or even more effective. Hence, it is very important that you take good care of your Invisalign aligners to make sure that the treatment ends up well and that you get to maximize the returns on your money spent.
Aside from properly cleaning your aligners, choosing an orthodontist who will help and guide you all throughout the treatment is the key to a successful Invisalign braces treatment. So, make sure that you pick the best and most reliable one you can find.
Location
10 Sinaran Drive, #11-18
Novena Medical Centre
Singapore 307506