Orthodontic treatment using transparent trays requires wearing them for about 22 hours a day. Removing aligners is recommended only during meals and oral hygiene procedures. This intensive exposure makes proper cleaning of the trays a key element of therapy, directly affecting its effectiveness and patient comfort.

Why is proper hygiene of orthodontic trays so important?

Orthodontic trays, worn for most of the day, are exposed to a range of factors that can affect their condition and properties:

• accumulation of bacterial plaque – microorganisms present in the oral cavity settle on the surface of the trays, forming a biofilm similar to that which accumulates on teeth,
• potential staining – prolonged contact with pigments contained in saliva can lead to loss of transparency of aligners and their gradual yellowing,
• hard-to-reach places – the anatomically fitted shape of the aligners creates spaces that are difficult to reach using conventional cleaning methods,
• risk of cavities and inflammations – improperly cleaned aligners can accumulate harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of oral diseases.

Clinical studies confirm that rinsing aligners with water alone or cleaning with a soft brush often does not provide an adequate level of hygiene [1].

SEE ALSO: Orthodontic aligners - disadvantages, advantages, costs [...]

Ultrasound in the service of orthodontic hygiene

Ultrasonic cleaners, previously used mainly in dental offices, are becoming an increasingly popular element of home hygiene for orthodontic patients. This technology uses the phenomenon of cavitation, which is the formation of tiny bubbles in water that collapse, producing microscopic sound waves. These waves effectively remove contaminants even from the smallest gaps in the aligners.

This process is characterized by:

• accuracy – sound waves penetrate even the smallest gaps in the aligners,
• gentleness – absence of mechanical friction eliminates the risk of micro-damage to the aligner surfaces,
• microbiological effectiveness – significant reduction of microorganisms on the surface of the aligners.

How to clean orthodontic aligners using an ultrasonic cleaner?

The correct procedure for cleaning aligners in an ultrasonic cleaner includes:

1. Rinsing the aligners under running water immediately after removal.
2. Placing the aligners in the cleaner chamber filled with water.
3. Optional addition of a specialized cleaning agent for orthodontic aligners (according to the manufacturer's recommendations).
4. Starting the cleaning cycle (usually lasts 3-5 minutes).
5. Rinsing aligners with clean water after the process is completed.

SEE ALSO: Dental ultrasonic cleaner – what kind of device [...]

Regular use of this protocol helps maintain optimal transparency of aligners throughout their usage period.

ZENT®Ultrasonic Cleaner ultrasonic cleaner – a revolution in orthodontic hygiene

Various models of ultrasonic cleaners are available on the market, among which ZENT®Ultrasonic Cleaner stands out, designed especially with the needs of orthodontic patients in mind. This device is characterized by:

• effective elimination of microorganisms – confirmed reduction in the number of bacteria and pathogens,
• maintaining the transparency of aligners – counteracting dullness and yellowing of aligners,
• prevention of bacterial plaque buildup – preventing biofilm formation on the aligners' surface,
• protection of the aligners' structure – no micro-scratches often caused by mechanical cleaning,
• time efficiency – a complete cleaning cycle takes only a few minutes.

Specialists' recommendations for orthodontic aligner hygiene

Orthodontists and dental hygienists recommend:

• cleaning aligners after each removal, especially after meals,
• using an ultrasonic cleaner at least once a day, optimally in the morning and evening,
• avoiding washing aligners with toothpaste, which may contain abrasive particles,
• regular checks of the aligners' condition during orthodontic visits.

Proper hygiene of aligners not only ensures an aesthetic appearance but above all constitutes an essential element of caries and gum disease prevention during orthodontic treatment. Investing in specialized tools for aligner care directly translates into therapy comfort and reduces the risk of dental complications.

_______________________________________

1. Pardo, A. et al. (2024). Home Biofilm Management in Orthodontic Aligners: A Systematic Review. Dentistry Journal.

_______________________________________

Paulina Koziar – a dental hygienist who, thanks to her experience and passion, created ZENT Dental Box, a subscription hygiene set tailored to the real needs of users. Her professional goal and dream is a Poland without cavities. With this mission, she inspires others to take care of a healthy smile daily in a convenient, effective, and modern way. In her texts, Paulina shares knowledge and emphasizes that daily oral hygiene requires not only regularity but also properly selected products that make the routine easier and more effective.