Effects of cleaning protocols on the material properties of clear aligners and retainers: A systematic review.

Researchers reviewed studies examining how different cleaning methods affect the properties of clear aligners and retainers, finding that effects varied widely depending on appliance material, cleaning type, and duration, with mechanical brushing often causing surface changes and chemical cleaning showing material-dependent results.

A plain-English summary of the study's own findings — we don't add our own claims or interpretation. Read the full paper for the complete methods and results, and apply your own clinical judgement.