Invisalign is probably one of the most, if not the most popular orthodontic treatment choice, especially among younger individuals. With many social events and advertisements showcasing influencers and celebrities promoting their positive experience, it is hard not to see why.
One of the primary reasons why they are much preferred over traditional braces is due to their almost invisible aesthetic design. In addition, they are removable. Hence, there is minimal to no disruption to drinking and eating during the course of treatment. While the cost of Invisalign braces is not exactly cheap, their comfort and appeal of effective and quick results outweigh their cost.
However, there is a common concern that is often associated with the treatment process. This concerns fears over the potential for teeth staining. Hence, in this article, we want to clear any misconceptions and elucidate the truth.
Does Invisalign lead to teeth staining?
No. Invisalign does not cause any teeth staining or discolouration. However, it does make your teeth susceptible to discolouration and staining under specific circumstances. What do we mean by that?
If your orthodontist has started you on an Invisalign treatment process, you have to maintain good oral hygiene so that your teeth do not stain. That means removing them before eating and ensuring you clean your teeth and Invisalign trays before putting them back on again.
Wearing Invisalign over dirty teeth leads to the dirt being trapped between the Invisalign and your teeth, resulting in the build-up of bacteria, causing tooth staining and discolouration, as well as other oral issues. As long as you practise good dental hygiene and follow your orthodontist’s instructions on maintaining your Invisalign, you do not have to worry about teeth staining.
What causes teeth staining during Invisalign treatment?
There are various factors that lead to tooth staining during Invisalign treatment. One of the common factors is a build-up of tartar and plaque between your teeth and the Invisalign. This often happens when you fail to maintain the cleanliness of your mouth.
Another common factor that leads to teeth staining is consuming specific drinks and food, including dark beverages, such as soft drinks, tea, coffee, and red wine, as well as berries, soy sauce, and tomato-based condiments.
Lastly, frequent consumption of acidic drinks and food can lead to the weakening of the enamel, which may lead to the demineralisation of the teeth. As a result, your teeth start to discolour. Additionally, residual plaque on your teeth is an ideal breeding ground for acid-producing bacteria which further weakens the enamel, causing tooth decay and staining. Such drinks and food to avoid are sugary foods, alcohol, and fruit juices.
How to prevent teeth staining when wearing Invisalign?
- Remove your Invisalign trays before eating: For most individuals, you will be told to wear your Invisalign braces for up to 22 hours daily. The only time you remove them is before eating anything or when brushing your teeth.
- Maintain tip-top oral hygiene: Make sure to clean your teeth and Invisalign braces after every meal. Additionally, cleaning your Invisalign trays at the end of the day, both inside and outside, is vital. Remember to use only lukewarm or cool water.
- Avoid food and drinks that stain: Food and drinks high in sugar and acid, are highly processed, or those containing dark pigments, must be avoided at all costs. If you really cannot avoid it, then make sure you remove your Invisalign trays before consuming them and brush your teeth straight after that, before putting the trays back on.
- Do not smoke: Your Invisalign braces will discolour when you smoke with them on, becoming stained and yellow, which may not appear aesthetically pleasing. The Invisalign treatment would probably be the best time to quit smoking, should you be attempting to do so. If not, then make sure to remove the Invisalign trays before smoking.
How to fix Invisalign-related teeth staining?
Depending on the type of stains your teeth may have, such as brown or white spots, the solution may differ. Nevertheless, below are some common solutions to fixing Invisalign-related teeth staining:
1. Tooth remineralisation
White spots that appear on your teeth are due to demineralisation or erosion of the tooth enamel. You just have to undergo remineralisation to fix it. There are a couple of ways, from natural methods, such as brushing your teeth with toothpaste rich in fluoride, increasing vitamin and calcium intake, drinking sufficient water and avoiding sugary food, to getting calcium phosphate treatments which help to remineralize your enamel.
2. Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is ideal for teeth that look yellow or have developed darker spots. The whitening treatment process involves the dentist using a special whitening gel that contains a high level of hydrogen peroxide alongside a special energising lamp. While the treatment can be quite expensive, it is still one of the most effective whitening treatment processes.
Conclusion
All in all, wearing Invisalign braces does not lead to teeth staining and discolouration. However, the poor practice of oral hygiene will lead to these issues. Ensuring that you practise good Invisalign habits, such as removing the trays whenever you eat or drink (except water), brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day, and avoiding specific food and drinks, can help you boost the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment.
BigSmile Dental Clinic offers some of the most affordable orthodontic and teeth whitening treatments. From traditional braces to lingual braces, visit us at https://www.bigsmile.com.sg/ to consult our orthodontist on the best-suited teeth straightening treatment for your specific needs today!