Spark Aligners are known for their exceptional clarity, comfort, and performance — but just like any dental appliance, they require daily care to stay clean, clear, and odor-free. Whether you're new to aligners or looking to improve your hygiene routine, knowing how to clean your Spark Aligners properly is essential to protecting both your investment and your oral health.
In this blog, we’ll break down the best ways to clean Spark Aligners, what to avoid, and how to keep your trays fresh throughout treatment.
Why Cleaning Your Spark Aligners Matters
Your Spark Aligners are worn for 20–22 hours a day, which means they spend most of their time inside your mouth. Throughout the day, aligners are exposed to:
- Saliva
- Food particles
- Bacteria
- Plaque buildup
- Staining agents from beverages or meals
If not cleaned properly, aligners can become cloudy, start to smell, or even contribute to tooth decay and gum issues. Regular cleaning doesn’t just protect your aligners — it protects your smile.
Daily Cleaning Routine for Spark Aligners
Keeping your aligners clean only takes a few minutes a day. Follow this simple daily routine to prevent buildup and keep them crystal clear.
1. Rinse After Removal
Whenever you take your aligners out — to eat, drink, or brush — give them a quick rinse with cool water. This helps wash away saliva and loose debris before it hardens.
2. Brush Gently With a Soft Toothbrush
At least once a day, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your aligners. You can use:
- Clear, unscented antibacterial soap
- A specialized aligner cleaning solution
- Spark’s recommended cleaning products (if provided)
Make sure to brush all surfaces of the trays, both inside and out, and rinse thoroughly afterward.
Important: Avoid using toothpaste. Most contain abrasive particles that can scratch and cloud the clear plastic.
3. Clean Your Teeth Before Reinserting
Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This helps prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped between your teeth and the aligner — which can lead to decay and bad breath.
Weekly Deep Cleaning Tips
In addition to daily care, a deeper cleaning once or twice a week can help prevent long-term staining and buildup.
Soak in a Cleaning Solution
Use an aligner-safe soak such as:
- Retainer or aligner cleaning tablets (follow package instructions)
- A 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water (soak for 15–30 minutes)
- A solution of hydrogen peroxide and water (50/50 ratio)
After soaking, brush and rinse the aligners to remove any remaining residue.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Spark Aligners
Proper cleaning isn’t just about what you do — it’s also about what you avoid. Certain products or habits can damage your aligners or reduce their clarity.
Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Toothpaste — Too abrasive and can scratch the surface
- Colored or scented soaps — May leave residue or dye your aligners
- Hot water — Can warp the aligners and affect their fit
- Mouthwash — Often contains dyes or alcohol that can discolor or dry out the trays
- Dishwasher or boiling water — Never attempt to sanitize with extreme heat
If you're ever unsure, stick to water and approved aligner cleaning products.
Tips for Keeping Your Aligners Fresh Throughout the Day
Since you're wearing Spark Aligners nearly all day, it helps to keep them as fresh as possible while on the go. These tips can make your aligner hygiene routine more manageable:
- Carry a retainer case — Always store aligners in a clean case when not in use
- Bring a travel toothbrush — Useful for quick cleaning at school, work, or restaurants
- Avoid eating or drinking with aligners in — Remove them before consuming anything other than water
- Rinse before reinserting — Even if you can't brush, rinsing can help reduce bacteria
What If Your Spark Aligners Smell or Look Cloudy?
If your aligners start to smell unpleasant or appear cloudy, they may need more frequent or more thorough cleaning. Here’s how to address common issues:
- Smelly aligners — Try soaking in a baking soda solution (1 tsp in a cup of water) for 15 minutes
- Cloudy appearance — Increase daily brushing and use a cleaning tablet once a week
- Persistent buildup — Consult your orthodontist for stronger cleaning solutions or a possible replacement tray
Never ignore these signs, as they may affect your oral health or indicate improper care.
Keeping Future Aligners Clean
You’ll receive new sets of Spark Aligners throughout your treatment. Each new tray is a fresh start, but you should begin cleaning them right away to build the habit and prevent early buildup.
Tips for managing new trays:
- Rinse them before first use
- Brush them gently after each wear
- Don’t assume “new” means “sterile” — Always clean first
Remember, Spark Aligners are designed to be worn around the clock. Keeping them clean helps you stay confident while smiling, speaking, and interacting with others.
Can You Whiten Your Teeth While Wearing Spark Aligners?
Some patients wonder if they can whiten their teeth while wearing clear aligners. While Spark Aligners aren’t specifically designed for whitening, it’s possible to use a whitening gel (if approved by your orthodontist) inside the trays.
However, keep in mind:
- Whitening can cause sensitivity
- Gel may affect the clarity of aligners
- Always ask your orthodontist before using whitening products
In most cases, it's best to wait until after treatment to whiten your teeth for the most even results.
Final Thoughts on Cleaning Spark Aligners
Spark Aligners are one of the clearest, most advanced aligner systems available — but like any dental appliance, they require proper care to stay that way. With a consistent cleaning routine, the right tools, and a few smart habits, you can keep your trays looking and feeling fresh every day of your treatment.
Considering Spark Aligners? Let’s Talk.
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics, we offer Spark Aligners as a premium option for patients seeking advanced aesthetics, comfort, and performance. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through how to care for your aligners and keep your smile on track.
Schedule a free consultation today to see if Spark Aligners are right for you — and to get personalized tips for maintaining your aligners with confidence.