Invisalign treatment is popular for many reasons, but one of its biggest selling points is its discreet appearance. When the aligners are on your teeth, they should be almost unnoticeable. But what if your aligners start turning yellow? That can detract from your smile’s beauty! In this blog post, learn why discoloration can occur and how you can prevent it.
Why Do Invisalign Aligners Turn Yellow?
There are a few reasons why Invisalign aligners might turn yellow:
- Plaque and bacteria can accumulate on your teeth and transfer to your aligners, which can cause them to become discolored.
- Consuming certain foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and some fruits and vegetables can result in yellowish aligners. The risk of this happening is especially high if you do not clean your mouth after consuming staining items.
- Smoking can lead to yellow or brown discoloration due to tar and nicotine.
- Improper cleaning methods can cause scratches and residue buildup, promoting discoloration.
- Saliva is mostly water, but it also contains minerals and other substances. If it dries on your aligners, it may cause them to look slightly yellow.
Preventing Discoloration of Your Invisalign Aligners
Here are some useful tips to keep your aligners fresh, clean, and clear:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth after each meal. This can greatly reduce plaque buildup.
- Clean your aligners according to the guidelines provided by care provider. You should rinse them after each meal and thoroughly clean them each night. Use a soft brush and clear, mild soap to scrub all their surfaces. You can also soak them in Invisalign cleaning crystals.
- Avoid cleaning products that are not suitable for clear aligners. For example, you should not soak them in mouthwash or any pigmented cleaning solutions. You should also not use abrasive toothpaste to clean them.
- Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water while wearing your aligners.
- Do not smoke. If you need assistance to kick the habit, talk to your primary care practitioner.
Invisalign aligners should be clear, not yellow! Apply the tips in this article to keep your aligners clean, fresh, and beautiful throughout your treatment period.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Susan Partovi is a proud member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Orthodontics. She and our team are happy to provide Invisalign clear aligners for members of the Rockville community. If you have questions about this treatment or how it works, we would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our office at 301-990-0020.