Clear aligner trays are custom-made, removable plastic devices used in orthodontic treatment to gently guide teeth into alignment. Because these thermoplastic appliances are worn for the majority of the day, they create a warm, moist environment highly conducive to bacterial growth and plaque biofilm formation. Regular and proper cleaning is necessary to maintain oral hygiene, prevent the accumulation of odor-causing bacteria, and ensure the trays remain clear. Neglecting this routine can lead to discoloration, unpleasant odors, and an increased risk of dental issues like gingival irritation and decay.
Essential Daily Cleaning Routine
The fundamental step in aligner maintenance is a mechanical cleaning process that should be performed every time the trays are removed, especially after meals and before reinsertion. Immediately upon removal, the trays should be rinsed under cool or lukewarm water to wash away saliva and any loose debris before they have a chance to dry onto the plastic. This simple act prevents the adherence of food particles and minimizes the formation of sticky biofilm.
The physical scrubbing of the trays should be done using a dedicated, soft-bristled toothbrush to reach all interior and exterior surfaces. Instead of using standard abrasive toothpaste, a small amount of clear, unscented liquid hand or dish soap should be used to gently cleanse the plastic. This mild soap effectively removes bacteria and surface debris without causing microscopic scratches that can trap stains and harbor more bacteria.
After the gentle scrubbing is complete, the aligners must be thoroughly rinsed under running water to remove all traces of the soap. Ensure no residue remains on the trays before placing them back into the mouth. This routine should ideally be performed twice daily, morning and night, and a quick rinse and brush with water should follow every time the aligners are taken out.
Methods for Thorough Disinfection
Mechanical cleaning is best supplemented by periodic soaking methods that provide deeper disinfection and break down stubborn buildup. Specialized effervescent aligner cleaning tablets are designed specifically to sanitize the plastic material effectively. These tablets are dissolved in lukewarm water, and the trays are typically soaked for 15 to 30 minutes, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
A diluted white vinegar solution can be used to remove hard mineral buildup, as it contains acetic acid. Soak the aligners in a solution of one part distilled white vinegar mixed with three parts water for 15 to 20 minutes.
Another effective soaking agent is a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution. A mixture of equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water is sufficient for a 20- to 30-minute soak. After soaking in a disinfectant solution, the aligners must always be brushed gently with a soft brush to remove any loosened plaque and then rinsed completely. Avoid mixing different chemical solutions, and rinse the aligners extensively after chemical disinfection to prevent irritation.
Materials and Practices to Avoid
Certain materials and habits can compromise the integrity and effectiveness of the thermoplastic aligners and should be strictly avoided. Standard toothpaste contains abrasive particles, often silica, which are intended to polish tooth enamel but will create fine scratches on the plastic surface. These micro-abrasions lead to cloudiness, make the trays more susceptible to staining, and create microscopic crevices where odor-causing bacteria can hide and multiply.
It is also important to use only cool or lukewarm water when rinsing or soaking the trays. Exposure to very hot water or attempting to boil the aligners can cause the thermoplastic material to warp or deform. Since the aligners are precisely molded to fit the current position of the teeth, even minor warping can compromise the fit and negatively affect the intended orthodontic movement.
Colored or heavily scented soaps and mouthwashes containing dyes or alcohol should not be used, as they can cause discoloration or weaken the plastic. Furthermore, wearing the aligners while consuming anything other than plain water should be avoided. Sugary or acidic beverages can seep under the trays, trapping substances against the teeth and staining the plastic. Finally, the aligner storage case itself should be cleaned regularly with soap and water to prevent it from becoming a reservoir for bacteria.