If you're undergoing or have completed Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering how to dispose of your old aligners responsibly. This page explains whether Invisalign aligners, trays, and bags can be recycled, and how to go about it.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into the planned position over time. Treatment typically involves wearing a new set of aligners every two weeks, which means you accumulate used aligners throughout the course of treatment.
Invisalign aligners are made from medical-grade plastic. If disposed of in general waste, they end up in landfill where they can take a very long time to break down. Used aligners are classified as medical waste and should not simply be placed in household rubbish bins.
Recycling used aligners helps reduce plastic waste and keeps medical-grade plastics out of landfill.
Yes. Most Invisalign trays are made from thermoplastic, which can be recycled through appropriate channels. However, they cannot be placed in standard household recycling bins due to their medical-grade classification.
Before recycling, clean your trays by rinsing them in warm water with gentle soap to remove any residue. Allow them to dry completely, then place them in a sealed bag or container marked with a recycling symbol. Include any extras that came with your trays, such as the carrying case and cleaning supplies.
Take your sealed bag or container to a recycling facility that accepts medical-grade plastics. Contact your local council or recycling facility to confirm what they accept.
Most aligner bags are made from plastic and may be recyclable. Empty and clean the bags before recycling — wash with soap and water and allow to dry. Check with your local recycling facility before attempting to recycle them, as not all facilities accept all types of plastic.
Invisalign bags can also be reused for other purposes or donated.
Invisalign aligners cannot be disposed of in standard recycling bins for two reasons.
First, they are classified as medical waste and are manufactured to comply with medical device standards (CE marking). Mixing them with regular recyclables can contaminate other materials.
Second, the multilayer polymer used in aligners requires different disposal methods than standard household plastics.
Your options for responsible disposal include asking your dentist or orthodontist for guidance on disposal at your dental practice, and using dedicated recycling programs. Spotlight Oral Care has partnered with TerraCycle to create a recycling program specifically for used clear aligners.
If recycling is not available in your area, there are alternative options. You can donate old aligners to local dental practices, where they may be used for educational or demonstration purposes. Some people also repurpose old aligners for craft or art projects.
Recycling old Invisalign aligners requires more effort than standard recycling, but responsible disposal is possible. Clean your aligners thoroughly, check with your local recycling facility or dental practice, and consider dedicated programs such as TerraCycle partnerships. Your dentist can also advise on the most appropriate disposal method in your area.
For full information about Invisalign treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/
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All dental treatment carries risks. The treatments described on this site may not be appropriate for your oral health. A full consultation with an AHPRA-registered dental professional is required before confirming suitability for any procedure. Individual results vary. For information about treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page.