One of the grabbing points of Invisalign is that it is more discreet than traditional braces. These clear plastic aligners are nearly invisible when worn, making them almost impossible for anyone to tell you’re wearing them. However, to ensure they stay that way, it’s important to know that the Invisalign aligners can stain. If your aligners start to have a yellow tint, there can be several reasons.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do about it! With the proper care, you can maintain their clarity and keep them looking fresh throughout your treatment.
Why Are My Invisalign Aligners Turning Yellow?
There are two main causes of stained aligners: everyday things and natural things.
Tea, coffee, red wines, dark sodas, and even mustard are everyday things that can stain your aligners. These beverages (and condiments) are the more commonly known culprits for yellowing aligners. But how do they stain? The aligners are made of porous plastic, so these products cling to them. When they cling, they leave that yellow tint.
A lesser-known cause is colored mouthwash. If you rinse with mouthwash while wearing your aligners or don’t wash out your mouth after using it, the color can also tint them.
Natural elements that can cause aligners to turn yellow include saliva, plaque, and bacteria. Saliva is an important part of your mouth’s health. It is mainly water but contains minerals, proteins, mucus, and enzymes. Because of these additional substances, saliva can have a yellow color, especially when it’s dried. When the saliva has had a chance to dry on the aligners, it can eventually stain them.
There are hundreds of species of bacteria in your mouth. When you eat, bacteria enjoy the leftover bits stuck in your mouth. They produce acids that turn into plaque. Plaque can be clear but can turn into a yellow, hard material called “tartar” if not removed regularly. If you allow plaque to stay on your teeth for long periods of time, it could transfer to the aligners and cause discoloration.
How Can I Stop My Aligners from Turning Yellow?
While there are a handful of ways to stain your aligners, there are some ways to clean discolored aligners. One option is hydrogen peroxide, which can act like a bleaching agent. Brushing them with diluted hydrogen peroxide will likely lighten the yellow tint. A mix of white vinegar and water can also help dissolve stains.
However, the best thing to do is practice consistent oral hygiene to prevent your Invisalign aligners from turning yellow. Brushing your teeth after every meal and rinsing your mouth throughout the day will wash away any staining particles that would otherwise be stuck between your aligners and teeth.
By following these simple yet essential tips to prevent yellow aligners, you can keep your Invisalign trays looking nearly invisible!
About the Practice
Dr. Tonie Lewis has been helping people feel more confident in their smiles for over 15 years. She offers a range of cosmetic, preventive, and restorative treatments to give you the dental care you need. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, she is proud to provide personalized treatments including everything from Invisalign to teeth whitening, and more! If you are interested in Invisalign and want to know more about it, contact us through our website or call us at (972)954-9728.