Wearing clear aligners is a great way to straighten your teeth discreetly, but keeping them clean is just as important for your smile as wearing them consistently. Without proper cleaning, aligners can become stained, develop unpleasant odors, or even harbor bacteria.
If you’re not sure how to clean aligners properly, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a few easy and effective methods. These are some of the biggest do’s and don’ts to help you keep your aligner trays looking (and smelling) fresh!
How To Clean Your Aligners Properly
There are a few different ways to clean your aligner trays, but the most important thing is to use gentle, non-abrasive methods to avoid scratching or damaging the material. Many of the methods below show you how to clean your clear aligners using simple household items you already have on hand.
1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush and Water
By far, the simplest way to clean your clear aligners is to brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. This removes plaque and keeps them clear. Include your aligners in your daily dental routine to make it easy.
2. Soak in a Denture or Retainer Cleaner
A retainer or denture cleaning solution (like Efferdent or Retainer Brite) can help remove stubborn buildup and bacteria, no scrubbing required. Simply:
- Fill a cup with lukewarm water.
- Drop in the cleaning tablet.
- Let your aligners soak for 10–15 minutes (check the instructions on the cleaner).
- Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
Avoid hot water when soaking aligners—heat is a disinfectant but can also warp your aligners and affect their fit. The solution takes care of all deep cleaning! If you’d like, you can also give them a gentle brush afterward with a soft toothbrush for good measure.
3. Use a Clear Aligner Cleaning Solution
If you drink dark sodas or coffee with aligners in, you may encounter stains. Many orthodontic brands offer specialized aligner cleaning solutions that are specially formulated to remove stains and bacteria without harming the clear plastic material. These are a great option if you want professional-level cleaning. Just use your clear aligner solution once a day or even a few times a week for best results.
Some solutions may contain strong chemicals. If you have sensitive gums, make sure you look for hypoallergenic or mild formulas and rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
4. Rinse With Hydrogen Peroxide
A 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water helps remove bacteria, plaque buildup, and odors without damaging the plastic. This solution can also help remove slight discoloration that can happen with daily wear. Simply soak them for 15–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly before use.
Never use full-strength hydrogen peroxide, and only use this rinse 1–2 times per week for deep cleaning. Prolonged exposure to hydrogen peroxide can weaken the aligner material.
Can You Clean Aligners With Toothpaste?
Technically, you can clean aligners with toothpaste, but our San Tan Valley orthodontist doesn’t recommend it. Many kinds of toothpaste contain abrasive ingredients that can:
- Scratch the surface of your aligners, making them cloudy
- Create tiny grooves that trap bacteria and plaque
- Shorten the lifespan of your trays
If you do use toothpaste, just make sure it’s non-abrasive and gel-based. A better alternative is using a gentle soap or aligner cleaner instead.
Can You Clean Aligners With Soap and Water?
Yes, you can clean aligners with soap and water! Clear, unscented antibacterial soap mixed with lukewarm water is a safe, easy, and effective way to clean your orthodontic appliances. Here’s how:
- Mix a small amount of soap with warm water until it becomes foamy
- Use a soft toothbrush to scrub the aligners gently
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
This is a great method for daily cleaning and helps prevent bacteria buildup. Just make sure to avoid colored or scented soaps. These often leave a residue or an unpleasant taste.
How Often Should You Clean Your Aligners?
You should do a basic clean of your aligners at least twice a day, just like you brush your teeth. It’s best to:
- Rinse them every time you take them out to prevent saliva and plaque buildup
- Give them a deep clean at least once per day to remove bacteria and stains
- Store them in a clean, dry case when not in use to avoid contamination
Remember, skipping these steps can cause discoloration, bad breath, and even a heightened risk of cavities. Deeper cleaning methods discussed above can be done about once a week.
Need Help With Your Clear Aligners?
If you have questions about cleaning your clear aligners, proper maintenance, or general orthodontic care in Queen Creek, Mesa, San Tan Valley, and other parts of Arizona, Peterson Family Ortho is here to help!
Schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can help you get started on your orthodontic journey!