Invisalign Greystones: How To Care For Your Aligners In 2026
Expert advice from South Beach Clinic, Greystone’s top rated clinical team of orthodontic specialists
Starting Invisalign treatment is an exciting step towards achieving a straighter, healthier smile — discreetly and comfortably. At South Beach Clinic, we’ve helped many patients transform their smiles using clear aligners, and one of the most common questions we get asked is: “How should I look after my aligners?”
The answer is simple, but important. Caring for your aligners correctly helps ensure they remain clear, hygienic, and effective throughout your treatment. Below, we’ll share everything you need to know about clear aligner maintenance — and why it matters more than you might think.
1. Why Is Clear Aligner Care So Important?
Your aligners are working day and night to gently move your teeth into the ideal position. But if they aren’t kept clean and properly stored, several problems can arise — from unpleasant odours to potential delays in treatment progress.
Neglecting your aligner care can lead to:
– Discolouration, making them more visible
– Bacterial build-up and poor oral hygiene
– Warping, if exposed to high heat or mishandled
– Poor fit, which can compromise the treatment outcome
At South Beach Clinic, our goal is to help you achieve your ideal smile efficiently and safely. That’s why we emphasise the importance of proper care right from the beginning of your Invisalign journey.
2. Cleaning Your Aligners: A Daily Routine
a) Rinse After Every Removal
Each time you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove saliva and surface debris. This simple habit helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps your aligners fresh.
b) Brush Gently with Soap
At least once daily, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a clear, unscented antibacterial soap to gently clean your aligners. Avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and may cause micro-scratches that make aligners appear cloudy.
c) Soak for a Deeper Clean
In addition to brushing, we recommend soaking your aligners daily using Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, Retainer Brite, or a similar product. This gives your aligners a deeper clean and helps remove any lingering bacteria or plaque.
d) Avoid Heat
Always use lukewarm or cool water when cleaning or rinsing your aligners. Hot water can warp the plastic, potentially altering the fit and delaying your treatment.
3. Consistent Wear is Key
One of the most important aspects of aligner care is consistency. Invisalign aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. The more consistently they are worn, the more effective the treatment will be.
Patients who remove their aligners too frequently — or forget to wear them — may experience:
– Unnecessary discomfort during re-insertion
– Slower treatment progress
– The need to repeat or extend certain stages of treatment
At South Beach Clinic, we support our patients with regular check-ins and, where possible, Dental Monitoring tool to help ensure you’re staying on track.
4. Supporting You Every Step of the Way
Choosing South Beach Clinic for your Invisalign treatment means more than just receiving aligners. You’ll benefit from our years of experience, state-of-the-art technology, and a caring team committed to delivering exceptional results.
Our team is always available to answer questions, guide you through best practices, and provide the personalised support you need for a smooth and successful experience.
Clear aligners offer a convenient and discreet way to straighten your teeth — but they’re not entirely maintenance-free. With just a few simple habits, you can keep your aligners clean, your treatment on track, and your smile journey moving forward.
If you’re thinking about Invisalign, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at South Beach Clinic, Greystones, Ireland.