Clean them at least twice a day—once in the morning and again before bed. Rinse every time you remove them to prevent buildup.

It’s best not to. Many toothpastes are gritty and can scratch aligners, making them look cloudy and more likely to trap bacteria.

Brush and rinse daily with mild soap and lukewarm water. For stronger odors, soak them weekly in a dentist-approved retainer cleaner.

Keep them in a ventilated protective case. Avoid wrapping them in napkins or leaving them on surfaces where they can get dirty or lost.

Call your dentist in San Jose, CA, or Dr. Neeshat Khan promptly. They can inspect the trays, clean them professionally, or replace them if needed.