Invisalign is a teeth-straightening method that is an alternative to traditional, metal braces. Invisalign uses custom, clear trays that gently straighten your teeth. Unlike braces, Invisalign trays are invisible! They are clear retainers that customers can discreetly wear 24/7. While Invisalign is just as effective as traditional braces, some people are concerned that the clear trays might dye their teeth yellow. In this article, we will explore the cause of yellow teeth and how to prevent teeth discoloration. Learn more about Invisalign with NVO, and schedule your Invisalign consultation today.
Does Invisalign Make Teeth Yellow?
No, Invisalign does not make teeth yellow. Yellow teeth are caused by poor dental hygiene. Eating and drinking certain foods may stain teeth or cause plaque buildup and cavities if one does not brush and floss thoroughly. Smoking can also cause yellow teeth along with mouth cancer, gum problems, and rotting teeth, in extreme cases. If left unchecked, poor dental hygiene can be expedited by Invisalign. Invisalign trays are clear, plastic retainers that should be worn for at least 20 hours every day. If the customer maintains a good dental hygiene routine, then they should not develop yellow teeth or cavities.
What Can Cause Yellow Teeth?
Certain foods and drinks can cause yellow teeth. Coffee, tea, soda, and wine are the main culprits for staining and yellowing. Highly pigmented foods like curry, berries, or dark-colored sauces can also stain teeth. This isn’t to say that you need to avoid them. If you practice good dental hygiene, you should be fine to consume these foods and drinks without noticeable yellowing.
Smoking, however, should be stopped to prevent yellow teeth. Not only will smoking turn your teeth yellow, but smoking will also turn your Invisalign trays yellow.
How Can I Prevent Yellow Teeth?
The best way to prevent yellow teeth is to limit food and drink that may stain your teeth while maintaining good dental hygiene. We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day. If possible, it is best to brush your teeth after every meal. We also recommend flossing at least twice a day, or if possible, flossing after each meal. Brushing and flossing helps remove plaque buildup which causes cavities. Brushing your teeth can also remove residue which causes stains. A tongue scraper can also be used to prevent bacteria buildup.
To maintain your teeth, it is best to see your dentist or a dental hygienist for regular cleanings in addition to daily brushing and flossing. Generally, you should get cleanings every six months. To whiten your teeth, you can use teeth whitening gel or toothpaste for the best results. Remember, whitening gel or toothpaste should not be used as a substitute for good dental hygiene, rather, whitening gel or toothpaste should be used in addition to your dental hygiene process.
How Can I Prevent Staining My Invisalign Trays?
The best way to prevent staining your Invisalign trays is to clean them regularly. Clean them after eating or drinking, so residue does not build up. Do not wear your trays when smoking, as smoking can cause the trays to turn yellow. If necessary, you can remove your trays when you wish to consume foods or beverages that may cause stains. Before putting the trays back in, you can brush your teeth to prevent staining your trays. If you choose to remove your trays to eat or drink, it’s best to not leave them out for longer than 30 minutes to prevent issues with the teeth-straightening process. Overall, if you keep your teeth clean and clean your retainers regularly, then the trays are less likely to stain.
Resources to Prevent Yellow Teeth
Below are some products that can help you prevent yellow teeth & stained Invisalign trays:
- Whitening Gel or Toothpaste — Crest, Colgate, and Sensodyne offer good whitening toothpaste. Ask your dentist or orthodontist if these products are right for you. These products can help vastly whiten your teeth.
- Retainer Cleaning Tablets — Efferdent and Retainer Brite are two brands that specialize in tablets for cleaning retainers and dentures. These cleaning tablets can help you keep your Invisalign trays clean and reduce yellowing. Make sure to double-check with your orthodontist that these cleaning tablets are safe to use on your straightening trays.
- A Water Flosser or Water Pick — If traditional flossing isn’t your cup of tea, then try a water flosser. These tools act as mini pressure washers for your teeth. They remove plaque and food bits with the power of water. They are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. Water flossers help reach spots that might be difficult to reach when flossing with traditional dental floss.
Invisalign With NVO
Invisalign does not cause yellow teeth. Yellow teeth are caused by poor dental hygiene, and yellow teeth can also be caused by consuming certain foods & drinks and smoking. To prevent yellow teeth, brush and floss your teeth regularly and clean your Invisalign retainers regularly. Limit your consumption of food and drinks that can stain your teeth and avoid smoking. If you practice good dental hygiene and clean your retainers regularly, then you can prevent yellow teeth. To learn more about getting Invisalign with Northern Virginia Orthodontics, contact us today.