Why Are My Clear Aligners Changing Color?

One of the main reasons you are likely to choose ClearCorrect aligners is because they’re clear, and thus harder for people to detect that you’re wearing them. But what happens if during treatment they start to become discolored? After all, even a slight change in tint can make your teeth look dirty or stained.

Here’s what could be causing your aligners to get dull, and what you can do to prevent it.

Improper Brushing Habits

One of the cardinal rules of wearing aligners is that you absolutely must remove them to eat, and then brush your teeth thoroughly before putting them back in. If you are noticing them developing a new hue, it could be because your teeth are transferring bacteria, plaque, and dried saliva onto them and then trapping it there until you remove them again. To remedy this, be sure to brush your teeth and floss each time you eat and before you put your aligners back in.

Staining Foods

While you should not be eating food with your aligners in, you can still wear them while you drink water. This is because unfortunately, some beverages like red wine, coffee, and cola can easily stain not just your teeth but your aligners, too, so if you’re having anything but water with them in, stop. If you notice your aligners looking dirty after drinking dark liquids even if you don’t wear them while you’re drinking them, switch to clear drinks, or rinse your mouth out thoroughly after you consume them.

Colored Cleansers

Cleaning your aligners once a day is imperative to keeping them crystal clear and free of bacteria and debris. Thus, using a special cleanser designed for retainers is recommended. Unfortunately, some colored cleansers could come with some unintended side effects.

If you are using a colored retainer soak or colored mouthwash, this could be causing stains in your aligners. The material used in ClearCorrect aligners is somewhat porous and can sometimes absorb the color of cleansers. If you notice this happening, consider switching to a brand that is colorless, or rinse your mouth thoroughly following the use of colored mouthwash, and never soak your aligners in it.

The good news is that if your aligners do begin to change color with time despite your best efforts, you will only be wearing them for a short while before you get new ones. Still, nobody wants to have tinted teeth, so keep these care tips in mind and prevent stains from forming in the first place!

About Our Practice

At Anderson Dental Center, we offer a wide range of dental services in one convenient location. From general dentistry to dental implants and ClearCorrect aligners, our team is proud to provide you with professional treatment in a calm, compassionate atmosphere.

To learn more about if you are a good candidate for ClearCorrect aligners, please contact us by visiting our website or calling 201-546-7435.