Clear braces, also referred to as ceramic or clear aligners, are a widely chosen option as an alternative to traditional metal braces. They use clear brackets and wires to straighten teeth, making them less visible than traditional braces. However, clear braces can become discolored over time, losing their clarity and becoming unsightly. In this blog, we will explore the ways to make clear braces clear again and restore their original, clear appearance.
Causes of Discoloration in Clear Braces
Staining from Food and Drink: Clear braces can stain just like natural teeth. Consuming foods and drinks that are known to cause staining, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can cause yellowing or discoloration of clear braces.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Clear braces require the same care as traditional braces. If proper oral hygiene is not maintained, plaque and tartar can build up on the braces, causing them to turn yellow or cloudy.
Wear and Tear: Clear braces are made of ceramic, a material that can discolor over time due to wear and tear. The older the braces, the more likely they are to lose their clarity.
Ways to Make Clear Braces Clear Again
Professional Cleaning: A professional cleaning by a dentist or orthodontist is the most effective way to make clear braces clear again. During the cleaning, plaque and tartar will be removed, and the braces will be polished to a bright, white finish.
Whitening Toothpaste: Using a whitening toothpaste can help to remove surface stains on clear braces. It’s important to use a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for whitening, as regular toothpaste may not be as effective.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: Mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide together can create a paste that can be used to whiten yellow clear braces. The paste should be applied to the braces and left on for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
Over-the-counter Whitening Kits: There are over-the-counter whitening kits available that can be used to whiten yellow clear braces. These kits typically come with a whitening gel or solution and a special tray that is worn over the braces.
Best Practices for Making Clear Braces Clear Again
Follow Instructions: It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the whitening product being used. This will ensure that the whitening process is done correctly and will not damage the clear braces.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: To prevent staining from food and drink, it’s best to avoid or limit consumption of staining agents such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
Use Retainers: After whitening, retainers should be worn to keep teeth in place and prevent the clear braces from turning yellow or cloudy again.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly is essential to keep clear braces clean and prevent discoloration. It’s also important to use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to kill any germs that can cause staining.
In conclusion, discolored clear braces can be made clear again by professional cleaning, whitening toothpaste, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mixture, and over-the-counter whitening kits. It’s important to follow the instructions of the product being used, avoid staining foods and drinks, use retainers, and maintain good oral hygiene to keep clear braces looking their best.
