What Are Invisalign Cleaning Crystals?
Invisalign cleaning crystals are a sodium sulfate-based cleaning powder made by Align Technology, the company that manufactures Invisalign aligners. The crystals dissolve in lukewarm water to create an effervescent solution that lifts plaque, tartar buildup, and bacteria from the surface of clear plastic aligners and retainers.
The product is specifically formulated for use with Invisalign trays, but the cleaning action is similar to other retainer and denture cleaning products. Each packet contains a pre-measured dose, which makes the process simple. The crystals are sold in boxes of 50 packets, typically lasting about one to two months depending on how often you clean.
How to Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Using Invisalign cleaning crystals is straightforward. Follow these steps for the best results.
- Remove your aligners and rinse them under lukewarm water to remove loose debris.
- Fill a clean cup or container with enough lukewarm water to fully submerge both aligner trays. Do not use hot water.
- Pour one packet of cleaning crystals into the water and stir gently until the powder dissolves.
- Place both aligners into the solution and let them soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the aligners from the solution and gently brush them with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove any remaining residue.
- Rinse the aligners thoroughly under lukewarm water before putting them back in your mouth.
- Discard the used cleaning solution. Do not reuse it.
How Often Should You Clean Your Aligners?
For best results, soak your aligners in a cleaning solution once daily. Many patients find that soaking in the morning while eating breakfast fits naturally into their routine. At minimum, a thorough cleaning every other day will help prevent significant buildup.
Between deep cleanings, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. A quick brush with a soft toothbrush and water at bedtime adds another layer of protection. The goal is to prevent plaque and bacteria from accumulating on the aligner surface, which causes cloudiness and odor.
Alternatives to Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Invisalign cleaning crystals work well but are not the only option. Several alternatives clean aligners effectively and are often easier to find or less expensive.
Retainer Cleaning Tablets
Products like Retainer Brite and EverSmile WhiteFoam are designed specifically for retainers and clear aligners. Retainer cleaning tablets work the same way as Invisalign cleaning crystals: drop a tablet into lukewarm water, soak the aligners for the recommended time, then rinse. These products are widely available at pharmacies and online, often at a lower cost per use than Invisalign-branded crystals.
Clear, Unscented Dish Soap
A small drop of clear, unscented liquid dish soap on a soft toothbrush is one of the simplest ways to clean your aligners. Gently brush the inside and outside of each tray, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. This method removes surface bacteria and buildup without chemicals. Avoid colored or scented soaps, which can leave residue or discolor the plastic.
Denture Cleaning Tablets
Denture cleaning tablets (such as Polident or Efferdent) contain similar active ingredients to aligner-specific products. They are inexpensive and available at any pharmacy. Dissolve one tablet in lukewarm water, soak the aligners for 15 to 20 minutes, and rinse. Some orthodontists recommend denture tablets as a budget-friendly alternative. Just avoid any product labeled as a denture adhesive, which is a different product entirely.
Hydrogen Peroxide Soak
A solution of equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water can be used as an occasional deep-cleaning soak. Submerge the aligners for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse well. This method helps with discoloration and odor. Do not use hydrogen peroxide concentrations higher than 3%, and do not soak aligners in this solution daily, as frequent use may affect the plastic over time.
What NOT to Use on Clear Aligners
Some common cleaning products can damage, warp, or stain clear aligners. Avoid these methods.
- Hot or boiling water: Heat warps the thermoplastic material, permanently distorting the fit of your aligners. Always use lukewarm or cool water.
- Whitening toothpaste: Most whitening toothpastes contain abrasive particles that scratch the surface of clear aligners. Scratches create a cloudy appearance and give bacteria more places to hide.
- Regular toothpaste: Even non-whitening toothpaste can be abrasive enough to scratch aligners. If you brush your trays, use only a soft brush with water or a drop of clear soap.
- Colored or alcohol-based mouthwash: Colored mouthwash (green, blue, purple) can stain clear aligners. Alcohol-based mouthwash may degrade the plastic with repeated use.
- Bleach or harsh household cleaners: These chemicals can damage the aligner material and are unsafe for products that go in your mouth.
- Dishwasher or UV sanitizer at high heat: The heat from a dishwasher will warp aligners. Some UV sanitizers are safe, but check the manufacturer specifications for temperature limits.
Daily Aligner Care Tips
Keeping your aligners clean is easier when good habits are part of your daily routine. These simple practices reduce the need for heavy-duty cleaning.
- Rinse aligners with lukewarm water every time you take them out, even if just for a meal.
- Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in. Food particles trapped between your teeth and the aligner promote bacteria growth and cavities.
- Store aligners in their case when not in your mouth. Leaving them exposed to air allows bacteria to dry onto the surface.
- Brush your aligners gently with a soft toothbrush and water at least once a day to remove surface film.
- Never eat or drink anything other than plain water while wearing aligners. Coffee, tea, and colored drinks stain the plastic quickly.
- Switch to your new set of trays on schedule. Since Invisalign trays are replaced every 1 to 2 weeks, deep cleaning matters most for retainers you wear long-term.
Cost of Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
A box of 50 Invisalign cleaning crystal packets typically costs $25 to $50, which works out to roughly $0.50 to $1.00 per use. If you clean daily, a box lasts about 7 weeks.
By comparison, generic retainer cleaning tablets cost $10 to $20 for a 3-month supply, and denture tablets are often under $10 for a similar quantity. Using clear dish soap costs only pennies per cleaning. The cleaning effectiveness across these options is similar, so the choice often comes down to convenience and personal preference. Costs vary by retailer.
When to Ask Your Orthodontist About Aligner Care
If your aligners develop a persistent odor, white chalky buildup, or visible discoloration that does not respond to regular cleaning, let your orthodontist know. Buildup that resists cleaning may indicate mineral deposits (tartar) or that the aligner material has become porous from improper cleaning methods.
Your orthodontist can also advise on cleaning products that are compatible with your specific aligner brand. While this guide focuses on Invisalign, other clear aligner systems (ClearCorrect, Spark, Angel Aligners) may have different material compositions that respond differently to certain cleaning agents.
Find an Orthodontist Near You
If you have questions about caring for your aligners or are considering clear aligner treatment, search the My Specialty Dentist directory to find a verified orthodontist in your area.
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