Yuck! Why are My Clear Aligners Turning Yellow?!

Clear aligners are great for patients looking for a discreet and convenient way to straighten their teeth. However, one common issue that many aligner users face is yellowing. If you’ve noticed your clear aligners turning yellow, you might be wondering what’s causing it and how to fix it. Then wonder no more! Read on to learn common reasons for clear aligner yellowing, and what you can do to keep yours crystal clear.

Why Are My Clear Aligners Turning Yellow?

Unfortunately, there’s no one thing to point to when it comes to your aligners turning yellow. Here are the most common ways this happens for most patients:

Stains from Food and Drink

One of the most common causes of yellowing is staining from food and drinks. Beverages like coffee, tea, and even some juices can leave stains on your aligners, especially if you wear them while drinking. Similarly, certain foods with strong pigments can also cause discoloration.

Poor Oral Hygiene

If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and bacteria can build up on your teeth and transfer to your aligners. Over time, this buildup can cause your aligners to develop a yellowish tint.

Dried Saliva on Your Clear Aligners

Saliva is also a culprit when it comes to yellowed aligners. Though the liquid is clear, it can dry to a pale yellow color. If you don’t rinse your aligners regularly, this can form a thin layer of dried “ick” that discolors them.

Daily Wear

Every set of aligners needs to be worn for two to three weeks before switching to the next set. Over that time, they will form small scratches that can make your aligners cloudy and trap food particles and saliva. This will gently tint your aligners the longer you wear them, though this isn’t always noticeable.

How Can I Prevent My Aligners from Yellowing?

Now that you know some of the reasons why clear aligners can become discolored, you can take steps to avoid it. Here are some dentist-approved tips:

Remove Aligners When Eating or Drinking

To prevent food and drink stains, always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This simple habit can significantly reduce the risk of discoloration!

Clean Your Clear Aligners Regularly

Rinse your aligners every time you remove them and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush at least once a day. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause the tiny scratches mentioned earlier.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly before putting your aligners back in is the best way to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup.

Keeping your clear aligners clean and free of yellow stains is key to maintaining their invisibility and effectiveness. With the right care and maintenance, you can enjoy a bright, confident smile throughout your treatment!

About the Practice

If you’re looking for an experienced practice with clear aligners, Chicago Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is a great fit! Their incredible dental team is diverse in their expertise, offering professionals from multiple dental fields. Together they use the latest dental technology and techniques to create beautiful smiles. Call (312) 766-0995 to schedule a consultation or visit our website to learn more about the services and treatments we offer.