Do Invisalign Aligners Smell? How to Prevent Odor

Scared your smell will stink after getting invisalign? This orthodontic device can help you straighten your teeth in a discreet manner. This will fix the position of your teeth with gentle pressure. However, you might be concerned if these aligners can develop an unpleasant odor. If not properly maintained, they can emit a bad smell.

Read this blog to learn how you can take care of your clear aligners to protect your mouth from odor.

Why Do Invisalign Aligners Smell?

Your aligners will never smell as long as they are maintained. Here are some factors that contribute to the bad smell:

• Oral bacteria can thrive in warm and moist environments. So, your aligner is the perfect breeding ground for them.
• If you eat or drink while wearing them, food particles might get stuck in your aligners. The trapped sugars and acids can produce a foul smell.
• Plaque and bacteria might accumulate in your aligners. So be sure to clean them on a daily basis.
• Not reinserting your oral appliance before reinserting them allows for the build-up of saliva and debris, leading to an unpleasant smell.

How To Prevent Invisalign Aligners From Smelling?

Follow these essential care tips to keep your Invisalign aligners clean and fresh:

Daily Cleaning

You can use cleaning crystals or a mild fragrance-free soap to clean your aligners. Avoid using toothpaste as a cleaner, as it might be too abrasive and harsh. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub and remove the accumulated debris gently. 

Practice Good Hygiene

Brush and floss your teeth after every meal to remove any remaining food particles from your mouth. Antibacterial mouthwashes recommended by an Invisalign dentist in Morrisville can help you get rid of the oral bacteria before you reinsert your aligners.

Rinse and Sok Daily

Rinse your aligners every time you remove them to eliminate saliva and plaque build-up. You can also soak your aligners regularly in dentist-recommended solutions, such as diluted hydrogen peroxide, etc, to completely eliminate the chances of odor.

Removing The Aligners

You can easily remove these orthodontic devices without any professional assistance. So take them before you consume certain food items.  Sugary foods and beverages might seep into your aligners, creating an unpleasant smell and supporting bacterial growth. 

Proper Storage

When you are not using them, store them in a clean, dry case. Avoid leaving them exposed to open air, as bacteria and germs can accumulate on them. Proper storage can protect them from accidental damage. 

What Are The Best Cleaning Agents For Invisalign?

Here are some solutions that you can use to clean your clear aligners safely:

• You can mix one part of white vinegar with three parts of water to clean your aligners thoroughly. Soak them in the solution for 20-30 mins.
• A paste made of water and baking soda can also clean your orthodontic device effectively.
• Mix hydrogen peroxide with lukewarm water to remove stains and dirt from your aligners.
• Invisalign crystals are specially designed to clean this particular oral device. Follow the instructions given on the crystals.

With proper care, this device can move your teeth with 50% accuracy.

Keep your orthodontic device fresh and odor-free with a combination of proper cleaning habits and good oral hygiene. Follow the tips given in this guide, and you can keep your smile fresh and free from any bacteria. This will also make your healing journey more comfortable.

Are you ready to start your care routine? You can seek consultation for professional guidance.