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

Why is proper hygiene of orthodontic trays so important?

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

• bacterial plaque buildup – microorganisms present in the mouth 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 the aligners and their gradual yellowing,
• hard-to-reach places – the anatomically fitted shape of the trays creates spaces that are difficult to reach using conventional cleaning methods,
• risk of tooth decay and inflammations – improperly cleaned trays can accumulate harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of oral diseases.

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

SEE ALSO: Orthodontic trays - drawbacks, advantages, costs [...]

Ultrasound in orthodontic hygiene

Ultrasonic cleaners, previously used mainly in dental offices, are becoming an increasingly popular part 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 dirt even from the smallest gaps in the trays.

This process is characterized by:

• precision – sound waves penetrate even the tiniest gaps in the trays,
• gentleness – the absence of mechanical friction eliminates the risk of microdamage to the surface of the aligners,
• microbiological effectiveness – significant reduction in the number of microorganisms on the surface of the trays.

How to clean orthodontic trays using an ultrasonic cleaner?

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

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

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

Regular use of this protocol helps maintain optimal transparency of the trays throughout their use.

ZENT®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 features:

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

Specialists’ recommendations for orthodontic tray hygiene

Orthodontists and dental hygienists recommend:

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

Proper hygiene of aligners not only ensures an aesthetic appearance but above all is an important element of preventing tooth decay and gum diseases during orthodontic treatment. Investing in specialized care tools for trays 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 – dental hygienist who, thanks to her experience and passion, created the ZENT Dental Box, a subscription hygiene set tailored to the real needs of users. Her professional goal and dream is a Poland free of tooth decay. With this mission, she inspires others to care for a healthy smile daily in a convenient, effective, and modern way. In her writings, 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.