CarolinasDentist Blog

Tips for Cleaning Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

dental provider with patient discussing cleaning invisalign trays

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular choice for straightening teeth discreetly and comfortably. But to keep them working effectively (and looking crystal clear), it’s important to clean them properly. Dirty aligners can cause bad breath, stains, and even impact your treatment progress. At CarolinasDentist, we’re sharing some simple tips to help you keep your aligners fresh, clear, and free of bacteria.

Why Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners Matters

Your aligners are in your mouth for 20-22 hours a day, which means they’re exposed to food particles, bacteria, and plaque. Without regular cleaning, they can develop odors, discoloration, and become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Plus, dirty aligners can transfer stains to your teeth, which is the opposite of what you want from orthodontic treatment!

Easy Tips for Keeping Your Aligners Clean

    Rinse Every Time You Remove Them: Whenever you take your aligners out, give them a quick rinse under lukewarm water. This helps prevent saliva and plaque buildup.

    Brush Gently, But Regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (but not the one you use for your teeth) and clear, unscented liquid soap to gently scrub your aligners. Avoid using toothpaste, especially the whitening kind, as it can be abrasive and scratch the aligner surface. Scratched aligners not only look cloudy but can also trap bacteria.

    Soak Daily: To keep your aligners crystal clear, soak them in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a gentle denture cleaner once a day. This removes any lingering bacteria and keeps them smelling fresh.

    Avoid Hot Water: Never rinse or soak your aligners in hot water—it can warp the plastic, affecting how they fit.

    Brush and Floss Before Reinserting: Clean teeth mean clean aligners. Always brush and floss before putting your aligners back in to avoid trapping food particles.

Caring for Your Invisalign Smile at CarolinasDentist

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is a simple but important step in achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. At CarolinasDentist, we’re here to guide you through every part of your orthodontic journey. If you have questions about aligner care or need more tips, schedule a visit at one of our North Carolina locations today. We’re here to help your smile shine—both during and after treatment!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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