You’ve likely heard how Invisalign clear aligners are practically invisible and more convenient than old-school braces. What some people don’t talk about though is the potential for Invisalign odor.
As top Invisalign providers in Leesburg, Ashburn, and Lansdowne, VA we get how unpleasant Invisalign smell can be. Not changing aligners and cleaning properly allows bacteria to build up. Before you know it, you’re emitting bad breath and aligners smell like the bottom of a dumpster!
The good news is that Invisalign odor is preventable with a strict cleaning routine. Follow these best practices from Lansdowne Family Dental for odor-free aligners throughout your treatment:
Clean Aligners Regularly
Keeping your Invisalign trays fresh and stench-free requires daily and weekly cleaning. Follow this schedule:
- After meals: Brush trays with water and a soft bristle toothbrush before inserting them back in your mouth
- Daily: Soak aligners for 15 minutes in Invisalign cleaning crystals
- Weekly: Deep clean trays with Invisalign cleaning crystals for 30 minutes
Cleaning crystals attack and dissolve gunk, germs, and tartar buildup. We recommend Invisalign-branded crystals which are stronger than store versions. Clean weekly even if aligners don’t seem dirty to stop bacteria from growing.
Floss and Brush Carefully
Trapped food around teeth under Invisalign trays is the #1 cause of odors. Getting debris out from every nook and cranny is crucial.
- Floss: Slide floss under aligner edges around each tooth
- Brush gums: Use a soft brush and gently scrub where aligners touch the gums
- Rinse thoroughly: Swish water vigorously around all sides after brushing
This removes particles aligners have trapped against your teeth before they rot and smell.
Monitor What You Eat and Drink
Avoid smelly and staining foods/drinks that seep under Invisalign trays and cause bad aligner breath. Some top troublemakers include:
- Curries and spicy cuisine
- Coffee and red wine
- Berries
- Soy sauce
- Tomato-based sauces
When you do indulge, clean your teeth and Invisalign trays immediately after eating. This prevents odors from developing.
| Invisalign-Friendly Foods | Invisalign Unfriendly Foods |
| White rice | Curries |
| Grilled chicken | Berries |
| Salads | Soy Sauce |
| White wine | Coffee |
| Plain yogurt | Tomato sauce |
Stick to bland foods as much as possible during treatment.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Even with meticulous aligner cleaning, Invisalign trays can warp, crack, or breed bacteria over months of wear. Visiting us at Lansdowne Family Dental every 6-8 aligners ensures:
- Well-fitting trays without gaps for particles to slip under
- Detection of periodontal issues
- Replacement of damaged/worn-out aligners
- Professional cleanings
Your entire mouth – teeth, gums, and aligners – needs monitoring to prevent stench. Book an appointment today!
Follow these best practices and no one will ever guess you have Invisalign in. Still, have questions on Invisalign care or concerns about odor? Our experts are happy to help – contact us to schedule a Lansdowne Family Dental consultation today!
