If your child or teen is wearing Invisalign clear aligners, keeping them clean is just as important as wearing them consistently. At Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re proud to support families throughout Austin with expert orthodontic care, and that includes tips for making Invisalign easy, effective, and hygienic.
Here’s how to clean Invisalign trays the right way, so your child’s smile stays fresh, healthy, and on track.
Rinse Every Time They’re Removed
Invisalign aligners should be rinsed every time they’re taken out of the mouth—whether for eating, drinking, brushing, or sports. A quick rinse under lukewarm water helps wash away saliva and debris that can cause odor or cloudiness.
Brush Gently with Clear Soap
Each day, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented liquid soap to gently brush the aligners. Skip toothpaste—it’s too abrasive and can scratch the plastic, making trays more visible. After brushing, rinse thoroughly and let them air dry before popping them back in.
Soak Daily for a Deeper Clean
To keep aligners crystal clear, soak them once a day using Invisalign cleaning crystals, denture tablets, or even a DIY mix of vinegar and water. Soak for 15–30 minutes, then brush and rinse. This step helps prevent buildup and keeps trays looking—and smelling—fresh.
Brush and Floss Before Putting Aligners Back In
Before reinserting Invisalign, it’s important your child brushes and flosses their teeth to avoid trapping food and bacteria under the trays. This keeps both their teeth and their aligners clean and cavity-free.
Never Eat or Drink with Aligners In
Only water is safe to drink while wearing Invisalign. Foods and sugary or colored drinks can stain or damage the trays—and hot liquids may warp them. Have your child remove their aligners for every snack and meal.
Keep a Case Handy
In your busy lifestyle, it’s easy to misplace things on the go. Always keep a travel case in your child’s backpack or sports bag so their aligners stay clean, protected, and out of napkins (aka, the black hole of lost trays!).
Schedule a Visit with Your Austin Invisalign Experts
At Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we love helping our Austin-area families feel confident and informed about Invisalign. Whether you’re just starting or have questions about daily care, Dr. Nicholas Bumacod, Dr. Coco, and our friendly team are always here to help.
Ready to learn more or schedule your child’s Invisalign consultation? Contact us today! We can’t wait to help your child shine brighter—tray by tray.
