Many people choose clear aligners because they are a reliable braces alternative that’s more discreet and comfortable. You don’t need to worry about shiny metal affecting your smile, but what if your trays have started to turn a bit yellow? This can make your teeth look discolored and leave you worried about showing off your grin, but here’s why this staining can happen and how to fix it.
Why Are My Aligners Turning Yellow?
Several culprits may be causing your aligner discoloration. It may be a mix of these factors, but here are some common ones:
- Drinking with Your Trays: You should only be having water when wearing them. Anything else can get trapped between them, and the dark particles can linger and stain your smile as well.
- Colored Mouthwash: If you rinse with this product while your aligners are in, then similar things can happen as the point above. Just be sure to remove them and rinse with water afterward.
- Dried Saliva: Your saliva is full of enzymes, proteins, minerals, and mucus, which can look yellow when it dries up.
- Hardened Plaque: Bacteria can transfer to your trays if you don’t clean your mouth after eating. They can turn into tartar that can lead to noticeable discoloration.
What Should I Do to Avoid Stains on My Trays?
While there are many ways that can lead to stains, there are effective ways you can prevent it from happening. Firstly, be sure to keep up with brushing and flossing after you eat. This will remove bacteria and debris from your grin, so they won’t get on your trays.
As was mentioned above, only drink water with your aligners. Sugary drinks like soda can get trapped between them and your teeth, which can cause discoloration and oral health issues when they’re not cleaned off. Take an extra second to remove them before you drink anything and rinse with water to help avoid trouble.
How Can I Make My Aligners Clear Again?
Your orthodontic trays may already have a yellow tint to them, so you may wonder how you can bring them back to their discreet appearance. There are some things you can try, like using diluted hydrogen peroxide or a mixture of water and white vinegar. They may help a little bit, but you will likely need to move on to your next set relatively soon.
Once you do, then you’ll be back to pristine aligners that are nearly invisible. Stick to the steps above to avoid discoloration, and you can hopefully prevent this from happening again later on.
About the Author
Dr. Tracy Jenkins earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He is happy to help the Idaho Falls community get the straighter smiles they love with clear aligners. By tailoring your treatment, you can know how you can avoid any issues with your trays. If you have any questions about your journey toward a healthier bite, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Jenkins’ office at (208) 522-8061.