Why Are Your Invisalign Clear Aligners Turning Yellow?

One of the main advantages of Invisalign clear aligners is that they’re discreet to the point where most people won’t even realize that you’re wearing them. However, as time passes, you might start to notice that your aligners are turning yellow, making them more noticeable. What exactly can cause this type of discoloration? And is there anything you can do to stop it from happening in the first place? Here’s what you need to know if you want to keep enjoying the benefits of virtually invisible clear aligners.

What Can Turn Invisalign Aligners Yellow?

There are several factors that can end up giving your Invisalign aligners a more yellowed appearance:

• Certain Foods and Beverages: Some types of foods and beverages (such as tomato sauce and coffee) contain pigments that cling to the teeth. If these pigments are transferred to your aligners, they can result in unsightly stains.
• Saliva: If saliva isn’t regularly rinsed off from your Invisalign aligners, it can leave behind a yellowish tint as it dries away.
• Plaque: Plaque can build up anywhere in your mouth, and that includes your Invisalign aligners. While plaque is usually clear, it can sometimes be yellow.
• Tobacco: Cigarettes and other tobacco products are well-known for leaving yellowish stains on teeth, and they can do the same to your clear aligners if you’re not careful.

How Can You Prevent Your Clear Aligners from Turning Yellow?

If you want to keep your Invisalign aligners clear and discoloration-free for as long as possible, be sure to follow these simple steps:

• Always take your aligners out before meals or snacks. You should not eat or drink anything except water while the aligners are still in your mouth.
• Before you put your aligners back in after eating, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly to get rid of the pigments that can cause discoloration.
• Make a point of cleaning your aligners regularly. Rinse away any saliva with lukewarm water and brush the aligners with a nonabrasive cleaning agent such as hand soap.
• Make an effort to stay away from tobacco products altogether.
• Cut down your consumption of coffee and other beverages known to cause stains. Try drinking them through a straw so that less liquid is left behind on your teeth.

In short, there are several ways for Invisalign aligners to become yellowed, but luckily, the problem can be avoided by taking the right steps. If you’re still worried about your aligners becoming discolored, let your dentist know during your next Invisalign consultation. They can give you additional tips for taking proper care of your aligners to keep them looking their best.

About the Practice

At Wayland Dental, our dentists put their combined experience to good use helping patients of all ages enjoy healthier, more eye-catching smiles. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive menu of services, which includes Invisalign clear aligners for straightening smiles without the need for metal brackets and wires. If you’re interested in getting Invisalign to correct crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, schedule a consultation at Wayland Dental today by visiting our website or calling (508) 651-0500.