When it comes to achieving a confident, straight smile with Invisalign, maintaining your aligners properly is just as important as wearing them for the recommended 22 hours per day. Dirty or discolored trays can impact both your oral health and the effectiveness of your treatment.
That’s why Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, led by Dr. Brandon Murphy, places a strong emphasis on daily Invisalign care. As a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign and a Mastership award recipient in 2025, Dr. Murphy brings years of advanced clinical experience to guide patients through every aspect of their Invisalign journey.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective, safe, and practical techniques to clean your aligners without damaging them, with exclusive insights from Dr. Brandon Murphy himself. You’ll also learn why maintaining clean aligners is vital to your oral health and overall treatment success.
Why Proper Aligner Cleaning Matters
Just like brushing your teeth and flossing, cleaning your Invisalign trays is part of a responsible oral care routine. Aligners are worn almost all day and are exposed to saliva, food particles, and bacteria. Without regular cleaning, they can become cloudy, stained, or odorous and may even harbor bacteria that lead to gum problems or bad breath.
Daily Invisalign maintenance is simple but essential. By following the right methods, you can ensure your aligners stay clear, odor-free, and effective throughout your treatment.
Common Cleaning Mistakes That Can Damage Aligners
Before we dive into Dr. Brandon Murphy’s top Invisalign maintenance tips, let’s highlight a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Using hot water: Heat can warp the plastic of your aligners, compromising the fit.
- Scrubbing with harsh toothpaste: Abrasive agents can scratch the surface, making them look cloudy.
- Soaking in mouthwash: Many mouthwashes contain dyes and alcohol that can stain or weaken aligners.
- Skipping cleaning altogether: Even invisible buildup can lead to staining or unpleasant smells.
According to Dr. Brandon Murphy, the right cleaning methods not only protect your trays but also play a vital role in your long-term results.
Invisalign Care Routine by Dr. Brandon Murphy
A thoughtful, consistent routine is the best way to maintain clear and odor-free aligners. Here’s what Dr. Brandon Murphy recommends as part of your daily Invisalign care routine:
1. Rinse After Every Removal
Each time you take your aligners out, rinse them under lukewarm water. This helps prevent saliva and debris from drying on the trays.
2. Use a Soft Toothbrush (Without Toothpaste)
Gently brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and particles. Skip the toothpaste, especially whitening ones, as they can scratch the aligners.
3. Clean with Approved Aligner Cleaners
Mild, unscented soap or a designated aligner cleaning solution is a great way to clean without damaging the plastic. Avoid any cleansers with dyes or alcohol.
4. Soak Them Daily
Dr. Murphy recommends soaking your trays once a day in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or an aligner-safe retainer soak. This helps kill bacteria and remove any lingering plaque.
5. Always Store Properly
If you’re not wearing them (such as during meals), always store your aligners in their designated case. Leaving them exposed can lead to contamination or accidental damage.
Discover Aligner Cleaning Tips from Dr. Brandon Murphy
Maintaining your aligners is not just about cleanliness; it’s also about keeping your treatment on track. Here’s how Dr. Brandon Murphy advises patients to take extra care of their aligners:
- Stay consistent: Cleaning your trays should be as routine as brushing your teeth.
- Don’t eat or drink with them in: Only water is safe. Anything else can stain or degrade the material.
- Replace your toothbrush regularly: A worn brush won’t clean effectively and can even damage your aligners.
Patients often ask Dr. Brandon Murphy how to keep aligners clear for the full two weeks they wear them. His response is simple: follow a precise, daily care regimen and avoid cutting corners.
Learn the Right Way to Clean Aligners with Dr. Brandon Murphy
The following is a day-in-the-life Invisalign care routine recommended by Dr. Brandon Murphy for Murphy Dental Group, PLLC patients:
Morning:
- Remove aligners.
- Brush teeth and aligners (no toothpaste on aligners).
- Rinse aligners before reinserting.
Afternoon:
- Rinse aligners after removal for lunch.
- Store in case while eating.
- Rinse and reinsert after brushing your teeth.
Evening:
- Brush and floss teeth.
- Clean aligners using mild soap or cleaning crystals.
- Soak them for 15–20 minutes (if possible).
- Rinse thoroughly before reinserting.
This routine supports optimal hygiene and preserves the clarity of the aligners throughout your treatment.
How to Keep Aligners Clear with Dr. Brandon Murphy’s Guidance
Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, is proud to provide tailored Invisalign care to every patient. With more than 1200 hours of continuing education, Dr. Brandon Murphy takes a proactive approach to patient education, ensuring you’re never guessing when it comes to aligner maintenance.
Here’s how you can ensure your aligners stay crystal clear:
- Avoid colored drinks like coffee, tea, and soda when wearing trays
- Brush after each meal to prevent transfer of food particles to trays
Clean aligners at the same time each day for consistency
Want a refresher on how Invisalign works and the services offered? Check out Murphy Dental’s Invisalign Services.
Invisalign Maintenance Tips from Murphy Dental Group
Beyond cleaning, there are some general care tips you should keep in mind throughout your Invisalign journey:
- Wear aligners at least 22 hours a day: Consistency is key to seeing progress.
- Never wrap them in napkins: This is one of the most common ways people accidentally throw them out.
- Use the aligner removal tool if needed: This helps reduce strain on your trays and protects your nails.
If you have questions about your Invisalign journey, don’t hesitate to Contact Murphy Dental Group. Our team is here to help every step of the way.
Get Invisalign Care Advice from Dr. Brandon Murphy
Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, is located in Oak Park, Illinois, and is easily accessible for residents across the Chicago metro area. Whether you’re a new Invisalign patient or looking to improve your current aligner care routine, Dr. Murphy is ready to help.
As of 2025, Dr. Murphy has earned the rare Mastership award, a distinction held by fewer than 2 percent of all dentists. He also holds a Fellowship award from the Academy of Clear Aligners, making him one of fewer than 140 awardees across North America. His expertise ensures every patient receives precise, customized Invisalign care.
Meet the doctor behind the care by visiting Dr. Brandon Murphy’s bio.
Find Out How Dr. Brandon Murphy Helps Maintain Invisalign Trays
Patients often share that they feel more empowered and confident in their Invisalign treatment after receiving personalized guidance from Dr. Brandon Murphy. At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, you don’t just get a treatment plan; you get education and support to maintain excellent hygiene and results.
Murphy Dental’s flexible Payment Plans also make it easy to access premium care without financial stress.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about daily Invisalign maintenance, get in touch with us.
For driving directions, click here. Or find us directly on Google Maps.
Conclusion
Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean doesn’t require fancy tools or harsh chemicals, just the right habits, a little discipline, and professional guidance. With insights from Dr. Brandon Murphy, you’re equipped to care for your trays confidently, keep them crystal clear, and stay on track with your treatment goals.
Your smile transformation depends not just on the technology behind Invisalign, but on your commitment to hygiene and daily care. And with the support of Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, you’re never alone in that journey.
Ready to Start or Upgrade Your Invisalign Journey?
Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, is your trusted source for Invisalign treatment and maintenance guidance. Whether you’re a current patient or exploring your options, we’re here to provide expert support throughout your smile transformation.
Visit our contact page to get started today.
Key Takeaways
- Clean your aligners daily using mild soap or Invisalign-safe cleaners
- Avoid using hot water, harsh toothpaste, or colored mouthwash
- Rinse aligners every time you remove them and store them properly
- Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting trays
- Wear aligners for at least 22 hours daily to ensure optimal progress
- Seek expert Invisalign care from a provider like Dr. Brandon Murphy, a Top 1% Diamond provider with Fellowship and Mastership honors
FAQ
- How often should I clean my aligners?
Clean them at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Soak them once daily for optimal results.
- Can I use toothpaste to clean my aligners?
No. Many toothpastes are abrasive and can scratch the plastic. Use mild soap or a recommended aligner cleaner instead.
- What if my aligners start to smell?
This typically indicates plaque buildup. Soaking them in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or an approved solution can help eliminate odors.
- Are aligners supposed to look cloudy after a few days?
No. With proper care, your trays should remain clear. Cloudiness can be a sign of buildup or damage from harsh cleaning methods.
- Is it okay to wear aligners while drinking coffee or tea?
No. Only water should be consumed while wearing your trays. Coffee, tea, and colored drinks can stain them quickly.
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Remember: Every Invisalign journey is unique. For best results, wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day and follow a consistent cleaning routine. Proper aligner care is essential for achieving your desired smile efficiently and safely.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical or dental advice. Please consult directly with Dr. Brandon Murphy or a licensed dental provider at Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, for personalized recommendations related to your Invisalign treatment.