Invisalign clear aligners are an amazing way to straighten your smile discreetly, without the hassle of metal braces. However, if you’ve recently noticed that your aligners seem yellow or cloudy, you’re not alone—it’s one of the most common concerns patients end up having during their treatment! While this discoloration won’t necessarily stop your aligners from working, it can make them more noticeable to others. However, with the right care, you can keep your aligners fresh, clear, and nearly invisible throughout your whole treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
Common Reasons Clear Aligners Turn Yellow
Your aligners are made of a special, medical-grade clear plastic that’s designed to be both safe and durable—but not stain-proof. Some of the most common causes of yellowing and discoloration include:
- Foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wines and sauces, and dark-colored berries can stain your aligners (as well as your teeth).
- If the aligners aren’t cleaned daily, plaque and bacteria can build up on their surfaces, leading to discoloration.
- Smoking or vaping can also be problematic, since nicotine and tar can quickly turn clear aligners yellow or brown.
- Aligners are typically worn for 1 – 2 weeks before switching to a new set; wearing a pair longer than recommended increases the chances of staining.
How to Prevent Invisalign Discoloration
The best way to fight yellowing is to build good daily habits that prevent it from happening in the first place. Here’s what your orthodontist will recommend:
- Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything aside from regular water. Any other food or drink has the potential to cause staining.
- Rinse your aligners often with cool water whenever you remove them, to wash away any excess bacteria or saliva.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented dish soap to clean your aligners every day. Avoid using whitening toothpaste, which is abrasive and can harm your aligners.
- Always clean your teeth before putting your aligners back in to prevent food particles from transferring onto them.
Remember, your aligners may only be temporary, but your results will last a lifetime. By following a few simple steps, preventing staining is easy, and you can enjoy all the benefits that this modern orthodontic treatment has to offer!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Sam Alkhoury, our team here at Ludlow Orthodontics has served the needs of patients in Ludlow and the surrounding area for several years. We proudly offer a wide variety of orthodontic solutions, including Invisalign clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog, about your Invisalign treatment, or you’d like to get in touch with our office to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (413) 547-0300.
