Clear aligners like Invisalign are designed to be discreet, giving you the ability to straighten your teeth without the look of traditional braces. But if you’ve noticed your aligners starting to turn yellow, you’re not alone. While they’re made from durable, medical-grade plastic, clear aligners can discolor over time due to certain habits and foods. The good news? With proper care, you can keep them looking clean, clear, and nearly invisible throughout your treatment. Here’s what causes yellowing and what you can do to fix — and prevent — it.
Why Clear Aligners Turn Yellow
Drinking Staining Beverages
One of the most common culprits behind yellow or cloudy aligners is drinking coffee, tea, soda, or wine while wearing them. These beverages contain pigments that can stain your aligners quickly — even after just one sip. Because aligners trap liquid between your teeth and the plastic, the discoloration can build up fast.
Poor Cleaning Habits
If you don’t clean your aligners properly or often enough, plaque and bacteria can accumulate. Over time, these deposits can give your aligners a yellowish tint and even cause an unpleasant odor. Rinsing with water alone isn’t enough — aligners need consistent and thorough cleaning to stay clear.
Eating with Your Aligners In
Clear aligners are not designed to withstand chewing. Eating while wearing them not only risks staining but can also warp or crack the trays. Even small bits of food and grease can stick to the aligner surface, causing discoloration that’s difficult to remove.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Some people try cleaning their aligners with toothpaste, mouthwash, or hot water. Unfortunately, these methods can do more harm than good. Toothpaste can scratch the surface of the aligner, making it more prone to staining, while hot water can cause warping.
How to Fix Yellow Aligners
If your aligners are already yellowing, there are a few things you can do to restore their clarity:
Use Aligner Cleaning Crystals or Tablets
Brands like Invisalign provide cleaning crystals specifically formulated to break down plaque and remove stains safely. Simply dissolve a tablet or packet in water, soak your aligners for 15–30 minutes, then brush gently and rinse.
Brush and Rinse After Every Meal
Before putting your aligners back in, always brush your teeth and rinse your trays. This helps remove leftover food particles and bacteria that can cause discoloration and bad breath.
Avoid DIY Cleaners
Household cleaners or abrasive products can damage your aligners or make them cloudy. Always stick with gentle, dentist-approved products designed for clear aligners or retainers.
Replace Discolored Aligners
If your aligners are too stained and you’re close to your next set, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend moving on early. Otherwise, they can provide guidance on how to clean or replace the current trays safely.
Preventing Yellow Aligners
To keep your aligners clear and odor-free throughout treatment:
- Remove them before eating or drinking anything but water.
- Clean them twice a day using a soft toothbrush and clear, mild soap.
- Rinse them every time you remove them.
- Store them in their case when not in use to avoid exposure to bacteria and staining.
Yellowing aligners are a common but preventable issue. By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding staining foods and drinks, and cleaning your trays properly, you can maintain the clear, invisible look that makes aligner treatment so appealing.
About the Practice
At Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford, we have the clear solution to straight teeth without metal with clear aligners! Our two highly experienced dentists can complete advanced training in six-month smiles. Also, we’re a family dental practice, meaning both children and adults are welcome for treatment. Let us begin your journey to a straighter, healthier smile with you. Schedule an appointment online or call (817) 594-7302.