How To Use Cleaning Crystals for Sparkling Aligners and Retainers
Keeping your aligners and retainers clear, hygienic, and odor-free is essential for both effective treatment and your overall oral health. While Invisalign Cleaning Crystals are one option, many patients today prefer the simplicity and portability of Movemints Aligner and Retainer Cleaning Tabs. This guide will walk you through why cleaning is so important, how crystals work, and why tabs may be the smarter upgrade for your daily routine.
Why Proper Cleaning Matters
When aligners aren’t cleaned thoroughly, plaque and bacteria build up quickly. This can lead to:
- Discoloration (your trays looking yellow, cloudy, or stained)
- Bad odors
- Oral health problems like gum irritation, cavities, or bad breath
Consistent deep cleaning keeps your aligners crystal clear and helps protect your teeth and gums during treatment.
How to Use Invisalign™ Cleaning Crystals (and Why Tabs Are Easier)
Cleaning Crystals: Dissolve one packet in a cup of warm water, soak aligners for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. The crystals break down buildup without scratching the plastic.
Movemints Cleaning Tabs: Drop one tab into warm water, soak aligners for 15 minutes, rinse, and you’re done. Same cleaning power, no messy packets.
Both options keep aligners fresh, but Tabs make it simpler to stick with your daily routine.
Invisalign™ Cleaning Crystals vs. Movemints Cleaning Tabs
| Feature | Invisalign Cleaning Crystals | Movemints Cleaning Tabs |
|
Cleaning Power |
Dissolves plaque, bacteria, and stains | Dissolves plaque, bacteria, and stains |
|
Format |
Single-use powder packets (must be mixed) | Perforated sheets of tablets (drop in water, no measuring) |
|
Ease of Use |
Tear packet, pour powder, stir | Pop a tab from the sheet, drop into water |
| Convenience | Messy, requires mixing | No mess, no measuring, no waste |
| Ultrasonic Cleaner Safe | Not recommended | Yes, fully compatible |
FAQ
When should I clean my aligners?
Daily soaking is recommended. Use Crystals or Tabs once per day to prevent buildup and odors.
Can I use toothpaste?
No. Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch aligners, making them cloudy. Stick to water + a cleaning solution.
What if I don’t clean properly?
Expect cloudiness, odors, gum irritation, and possibly cavities. Daily cleaning prevents these problems.
How are Movemints Tabs different from Crystals?
They offer the same cleaning power but are easier to use, more portable, and part of a full aligner care system.
Movemints Breath Mints for Aligners Mint Chocolate - 3 Bags
Movemints Breath Mints for Aligners Orange - 3 Bags
