One of the major benefits of Invisalign is that it’s a highly discreet form of orthodontic treatment that most people won’t even notice. If your clear aligners aren’t looking so clear anymore, it’s time to level up how you care for them. There are many reasons as to why your aligners may be discolored. Knowing what’s causing the yellowing is the first step to solving your problem. Here’s why your Invisalign is turning yellow and how you can prevent discoloration.
What Causes Invisalign to Turn Yellow?
Here are some things that could be turning your clear aligners yellow:
- Colored oral hygiene products, such as purple mouthwash or blue aligner cleanser.
- Dark-colored beverages, like tea, coffee, red wine, and sodas.
- Dark-colored foods, including berries, milk chocolate, curry, and beets.
- Natural staining agents (i.e., saliva, plaque, bacteria)
Your Invisalign can stain even if you are taking your aligners out whenever you’re eating or drinking. That being said, the discoloration would be much worse if you left them in. A good rule of thumb is to try to avoid or limit any food or drink that would stain a white t-shirt as much as you can.
Fortunately, there are ways to remove and prevent discoloration from your aligners.
What Can I Do if My Invisalign is Discolored?
If your aligners have already been stained, all is not lost. After eating or drinking, rinse your mouth and brush and floss your pearly whites. This ensures you’re not trapping staining agents between your aligners and teeth.
Whenever you remove your aligners (before eating or drinking), take the time to clean them. You should be cleaning them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. Every so often, deep clean them with a solution specifically made for aligners. It’s important you’re using the right products. Avoid harsh ingredients, soaking your aligners in mouthwash, and letting them sit out. Keep them in a case if they’re not in your mouth or soak them in a cleaning solution.
Wearing and protecting your Invisalign doesn’t have to be a challenge. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following a few additional practices can keep your treatment discreet until you achieve your smile goals.
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Dillard has completed more than 100 hours of advanced courses in Invisalign treatment. He is highly experienced in enhancing patient smiles with virtually undetectable orthodontics. Additionally, his practice is happy to provide a special offer: $500 off Invisalign! If you are curious if you are a candidate for Invisalign or are struggling with yellowing aligner trays, contact Dr. Dillard at his website or by phone at (972) 394-1492.