Like countless others, you may have been drawn to Invisalign because the aligners are clear, making your teeth-straightening journey virtually undetectable. But what happens if they start to discolor, negatively impacting how they look and smell? Below, you’ll find four common causes of yellow aligners as well as what you can do to help prevent that from happening.
Reason #1: Not Rinsing the Aligners Frequently
One mistake patients often make is that they don’t rinse their aligners with clean, cool water when they take them out. However, this is crucial because – if you don’t – saliva, plaque, and other debris will sit on the surface while you’re eating or completing your oral hygiene regimen. Since this can leave your aligners stained and smelly, it’s important not to skip this step!
Reason #2: Drinking Coffee with the Aligners In
You might find that you are motivated to follow all of the treatment guidelines at the beginning of your Invisalign journey, but also that the feeling is fleeting a few weeks or months in. Usually, removing the trays when drinking coffee is the first thing to go. However, hot coffee can warp the aligners, and even if you opt for the alternative (iced coffee) this habit can lead to stubborn stains.
Reason #3: A Lackluster Oral Hygiene Regimen
Remember, if you don’t take good care of your teeth, then it won’t take long for your trays to suffer too. That’s why it’s so important that you commit to a solid oral hygiene regimen! That means brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash consistently as well as prioritizing your biannual dental checkups and quitting unhealthy habits, like biting your nails or chewing on ice.
Reason #4: Using the Wrong Cleaners
In an effort to keep your aligners perfectly clear, you might be tempted to use household cleaners, like bleach. However, these contain toxins that are not safe to ingest and are often way too harsh. For that reason, patients are encouraged to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean, cool water. In some cases, a clear, mild dishwashing liquid can also be used.
About the Practice
With over 30 years of experience under his belt, patients in Worcester can confidently turn to Dr. Joseph Costa for everything from routine checkups to smile-enhancing Invisalign. He loves using everything he has learned throughout the years to help our patients achieve a smile that’s as healthy as it is beautiful too, and his caring and compassionate approach are two of the many reasons our office is top-rated. If you would like to schedule a consultation with him, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 755-1980.