Temperature
Use water that will not soften or distort the plastic. Never boil or place aligners in a dishwasher.
04 · Live it · Kamloops
How to clean Invisalign aligners
Clean trays and clean teeth work together. A spotless aligner placed over plaque or sugar still creates an unhealthy environment.
The plain answer
Use gentle cleaning, cool or lukewarm water and the products approved by the treating office.
Rinse aligners when removed, brush them gently with a separate soft brush when instructed and use approved cleaning products. Brush and floss teeth regularly, and continue routine dental preventive care throughout treatment.
Ask the office for one written cleaning method and follow it consistently. Replace a worn case, let it dry and clean it regularly so a clean tray is not stored in a contaminated container.
What matters
Three things to evaluate before acting
Surface damage
Scratches can make trays look cloudy and create areas that retain debris.
Oral health
Cleaning the appliance does not replace brushing, flossing, examinations or professional hygiene care.
04
Where this fits
Make treatment work in ordinary daily life.
The Live it stage is where outcomes are protected by routine. Aligners must be worn as directed, removed safely, cleaned sensibly and kept away from heat. Tracking problems, lost trays or unexpected discomfort should be reported rather than hidden until the next scheduled visit.
Hot water can warp aligners. Abrasive toothpaste can scratch and cloud plastic. Coloured mouthwash may stain, and harsh household chemicals are not appropriate for an oral appliance.
Questions people ask
Useful answers before a consultation
Can I use toothpaste on Invisalign?
Some toothpastes are abrasive and can scratch trays. Use the method recommended by the treating office.
Why do my aligners smell?
Odour can result from trapped plaque, food residue, dry storage or inadequate case cleaning. Persistent issues should be discussed.
Can I soak aligners overnight?
Active aligners are normally worn overnight. Cleaning soaks should follow product and clinician instructions and should not replace prescribed wear.
References
Sources for this topic
External sources can change. Verify current regulatory, professional, manufacturer and local information at the linked publisher; these sources do not replace an individualized examination.
Presented by Blue Bird Dental, Hillside Dental and River City Dental. Last reviewed September 5, 2026. This content is educational and is not a substitute for an individualized examination, diagnosis or treatment recommendation. For pain, swelling, trauma, breathing difficulty, uncontrolled bleeding, infection or an appliance causing injury, contact a local dentist, treating provider or emergency service directly.