If you’re like many patients, the discreet trays were one of the top reasons you chose to straighten your teeth with Invisalign. If they begin to yellow, however, then your orthodontic treatment is nowhere near as discreet and, perhaps worse, your teeth will look weak and brittle. The good news is that this situation is largely avoidable with the right best practices in place. So, keep reading to learn a few common causes of yellow aligners and how to properly clean them!
5 Common Causes of Yellow Aligners
Your aligners can begin to discolor for several reasons, including:
- Not rinsing your aligners with clean water frequently
- Drinking dark-colored beverages with your aligners in
- Not brushing and flossing your teeth after each meal
- Engaging in unhealthy habits, like smoking
- Not cleaning your aligners each morning and evening
How to Properly Clean Your Aligners
The good news is that you can keep your aligners in pristine condition throughout your entire treatment by caring for them properly. Even better news: you don’t need to buy any expensive products or adopt any time-consuming habits! All you need to do is use some clean water and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub each surface. Ideally, you would do this after each meal. That’s why patients are encouraged to keep their oral hygiene essentials on hand. That way, whether you’re at home, at the office, or at lunch with friends, you can easily clean your teeth and your aligners!
What to Do If Your Aligners Look Yellow
Once your aligners begin to take on a yellow tinge, add another step to the process: using your cleaning crystals. You will have a few packs of these in your welcome kit, and they will be very handy when your trays discolor. All you need to do is fill a clean container with some slightly warm water, add a packet of cleaning crystals, and submerge your aligners in the mixture. After about 15 minutes, your trays should be noticeably cleaner and clearer!
Although clear aligners are relatively low maintenance, they do require consistent care so they don’t turn yellow. If you’re having trouble maintaining yours, don’t hesitate to talk to your dental team so they can provide you with specific recommendations and tips!
About the Practice
At Gentle Dentistry Sparta, we aren’t just a top-rated dental office; we’re a top-rated dental office that offers a wide range of smile-enhancing treatments, including Invisalign. With multiple financial solutions and convenient appointment times (including early mornings and some weekends), achieving your dream smile is easier than ever before too! If you want to learn more about life with clear aligners or you’d like to schedule a consultation with us, visit our website or call (973) 729-9044.