More and more patients these days are relying on Invisalign clear aligners to achieve straighter and more confident smiles. One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is how discreet it is; the clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and stay virtually undetectable throughout treatment. However, there is one catch: Invisalign trays don’t stay clear on their own! Without proper care, they can become cloudy, stained, or yellow, making them much more noticeable than intended. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to prevent this.
Common Causes of Invisalign Discoloration
Even though Invisalign aligners are made from a special, transparent plastic material, they can still become stained—which makes them stand out while being worn. The most common reason for this staining is drinking anything besides clear water while wearing the aligners.
Coffee, tea, soda, wine, and even sports drinks can stain Invisalign and also trap sugary particles against your teeth, increasing your cavity risk. Anytime you want to sip anything besides regular water, take your Invisalign out. The same applies to food; not only can eating with Invisalign risk damaging the trays, but food particles and pigments can also stick to them.
Poor oral hygiene is also a big factor. Putting aligners back into a mouth that hasn’t been brushed allows bacteria, plaque, and leftover debris to be sealed inside, turning the trays cloudy and dull. Nicotine and tobacco products are also major staining culprits. Smoking and vaping while wearing aligners can quickly turn them yellow or brown, in addition to making them smell foul.
Tips for Keeping Your Aligners Crystal-Clear
Luckily, keeping your aligners clear and stain-free is as easy as following these tips:
- Never eat or drink while wearing your aligners. Clear water is okay.
- Rinse your trays every time you remove them to eat, and clean them thoroughly at least once a day using a soft toothbrush and gentle soap.
- Clean teeth help keep aligners clear, so be sure to brush and floss before putting your trays back in to reduce the buildup of bacteria and staining agents.
- Store your aligners properly by putting them in their case when they aren’t being worn, since exposing them to air or other surfaces might cause staining.
Invisalign trays are designed to be clear, comfortable, and discreet, but they need your help to stay that way. By avoiding common staining habits and following simple daily care routines, you can keep your liners virtually invisible on your journey to a straighter smile!
About the Practice
Our team here at Flagship Dental Group serves patients and families in Longmeadow and the surrounding communities. We offer a wide range of services, including Invisalign clear aligners for patients who’d like straighter, more confident teeth without having to commit to braces. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (413) 567-1221.