Many people get Invisalign because it’s a discreet braces alternative. This might’ve drawn you in, so now you have your own set of trays that get you closer to your straighter smile. While the clear plastic blends into your teeth, it can stain over time. If this is happening to your pair, here’s why and what you can do about it.
Why Can Invisalign Turn Yellow?
Before diving into how you can stop your Invisalign from discoloring, you should first learn what causes it. These are a few common culprits to know:
- Plaque that hardens turns yellow.
- Dried saliva can cause stains, as it does on your pillow.
- Colored mouthwash gets trapped between your teeth if you are wearing your trays while using it.
- Drinking any beverage aside from water can be trouble because of the same issue above, but with an increased likelihood of cavities.
Tips to Lighten Yellowing Aligners
If you notice your aligners becoming stained, there are a few things you can do to lessen it. Brush them with a mixture of white vinegar and water or diluted hydrogen peroxide. While these can reduce the severity, they may not fully get rid of the yellow tint. Thankfully, you’ll need to swap to a new set of trays every week or two as part of your treatment timeline, so you won’t need to deal with your current pair for too much longer.
Ways to Prevent Stained Invisalign
Once you move along your Invisalign journey, you should do your best to prevent discoloration. Thankfully, there are easy ways you can do it. Simply add these steps into your routine:
- Brush and floss after every meal to avoid plaque from transferring to your aligners.
- Don’t forget to clean your trays as well. Special cleaning crystals can make the process easier, but find what works for you.
- While wearing your Invisalign, don’t eat or drink anything other than water. Doing so can lead to damage and a yellow tint.
Thankfully, by adding these tips into your everyday routine, you can ensure your orthodontic treatment stays discreet. That way, you have a smoother journey to the straighter smile you’re working hard to get.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Fromuth earned his dental degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is dedicated to helping patients in Manchester correct their misalignment and malocclusion with Invisalign. Dr. Fromuth stays by your side throughout your time with your aligners, so you know how to do your best to avoid delays. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 603-644-3368.