Key Takeaways
- Cleaning OrthoFX aligners is simple and takes less than a minute.
- Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water for daily cleaning.
- Avoid toothpaste, hot water, and colored soaps to prevent damage.
- Soaking trays occasionally keeps them fresh and odor-free.
- Clean aligners support better oral hygiene and smoother treatment.
A clear, fresh-looking clear aligner always feels good to wear. It snaps in smoothly, blends into your smile, and stays comfortable through the day. To keep it that way, most people eventually wonder, “how do I clean my OrthoFX aligners without damaging them or dulling their clarity?” The routine is simpler than it seems, and once you get the hang of it, keeping your trays spotless becomes an easy part of your daily flow.
What This Blog Covers
- Best ways to clean OrthoFX aligners
- Whether brushing or soaking is better
- Everyday habits that keep trays fresh
- What to avoid when cleaning
- When to contact your FX doctor
Clean your OrthoFX aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water, then soak them occasionally in an approved cleaning solution. Avoid hot water, toothpaste, and colored soaps to maintain clarity and prevent damage.
Why Cleaning Your Aligners Matters More Than You Think?
Aligners sit right up against your teeth for hours a day, so anything that enters your mouth can also stick to your trays too. Food particles, bacteria, morning breath, leftover coffee residue, they all try to tag along.
A good cleaning routine:
- Stops bad breath before it starts
- Keeps your trays clear and not cloudy
- Protects your oral hygiene
- Prevents buildup that can make aligners feel tight or taste off
- Helps your aligners stay invisible, which is the whole point
Because aligners are removable, keeping them clean is actually much simpler than metal braces. There are no brackets or wires to work around, and no awkward angles that make brushing difficult. A quick daily routine is all it takes to keep both your aligners and your teeth fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Clean Aligners? A Quick Breakdown
Cleaning your aligners doesn’t need a complicated routine, but it does need the right one. The method depends on the type of OrthoFX aligner you’re wearing.
1. Brushing Your Aligners (Daily and Required for All OrthoFX Aligners))
Daily brushing is the foundation of aligner care for all OrthoFX aligners, including AirFlex™, FXClear™, FXBright™, and Rescue™.
Use:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush
- Lukewarm water
- A small amount of clear, mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals
Gently brush the inside and outside of your aligners once or twice a day. This removes saliva buildup, food residue, and bacteria without damaging the material.
A few important reminders:
- Never use hot water
- Skip toothpaste, it’s abrasive and can scratch the aligner
- Rinse thoroughly after washing
- Brush gently, not aggressively
For most patients, this daily routine is all that’s needed to keep aligners clean and comfortable.
2. Soaking Your Aligners (Optional and Aligner-Specific)
Soaking is not required for any OrthoFX aligner. It is optional and depends on the aligner type:
- FXClear and FXBright
You may use approved clear aligner cleaning tablets or OrthoFX-recommended solutions occasionally, about once a week if desired.
- AirFlex and Rescue
Soaking is not recommended. These aligners should only be cleaned using the daily brushing method with soap and water.
If you’re unsure whether soaking is appropriate for your aligner, always follow your doctor’s guidance.
What Not to Use on AirFlex or Rescue Aligners?
This part matters. Using the wrong products can damage your aligners.
Do not use:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Ultrasonic cleaning devices
- Alcohol-based cleaners
- Whitening solutions
These methods can weaken the material, cause warping, or reduce the aligner’s effectiveness.
Tips for Keeping Your Clear Aligners Clean All Day
These tiny habits make a big difference:
- Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water
- Brush your teeth before putting trays back in
- Rinse aligners every time you remove them
- Avoid colored or scented soaps that can tint your trays
- Don’t leave aligners wrapped in tissue
- Store them in the case, not your pocket, not a napkin, not your bag
Following these keeps your trays clear and your oral health on track.
Why Do OrthoFX Aligners Stay Clear Longer?
Because you’re wearing premium aligners, you’ve already won half the battle.
OrthoFX designs trays to resist discoloration and cloudiness, so even with normal use, they stay clearer than the average aligner material.*
Quality material + good cleaning habits = that invisible aligner look people love.
When to Call Your OrthoFX Doctor?
This blog is for day to day cleaning, but there are moments when you should reach out for help:
- Your aligners still look stained even after cleaning
- A tray smells unpleasant no matter what you try
- Your aligner cracks during cleaning
- You’re unsure if a cleaning product is safe
- A tray suddenly feels too tight or too loose
Your OrthoFX doctor isn’t just there for the start of treatment. They’re your support through the entire journey.
FAQs
Q. What’s the best way to clean aligners? A. Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water daily, and soak occasionally for deeper cleaning.
Q. Can I use toothpaste to clean the aligners? A. No, toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch or dull the trays.
Q. Is it better to brush or soak aligners? A. Both work. Brushing handles daily cleaning, and soaking gives a deeper refresh.
Q. Can hot water clean aligners better? A. Hot water can warp trays. Always stick to lukewarm water.
Q. How often should I soak my aligners? A. Two to three times a week is usually enough unless your doctor recommends more.
Need help with cleaning or tray fit? Find an OrthoFX doctor near you for personalized guidance during your OrthoFX treatment.
Conclusion
Keeping OrthoFX clear aligners clean isn’t complicated. A quick brushing, an occasional soak, and a few smart habits keep your trays clear, fresh, and invisible. Clean aligners support better movement and more comfortable wear, and if anything doesn’t look right, your FX doctor is always your next step for support.
Footnotes: *Data on file.
