Why Is My Retainer Turning Yellow or Cloudy?

A clear retainer does not stay clear by itself. Over time it can turn yellow, cloudy or both. The two problems have different causes, and knowing which one you have tells you how to fix it.

Yellowing

Yellow staining usually comes from what you eat and drink. Coffee, tea, red wine, soda and strongly colored foods all leave pigments on the plastic, especially if the retainer is worn during or right after meals. Smoking and vaping also stain. Plaque film that is left to build up turns yellow on its own.

What helps: a soak with one of our retainer cleaner tablets, which lifts surface stains, and rinsing the retainer after every wear so pigments do not have time to set. Take the retainer out to eat and drink anything other than water.

Cloudiness

Cloudiness is usually mineral deposits from saliva, fine scratches, or both. Deposits form a thin white haze. Scratches from toothpaste or hard brushing scatter light so the plastic looks frosted.

What helps: an ultrasonic retainer cleaner removes mineral haze without scrubbing. Scratches cannot be removed, but switching to a soft brush and plain water stops them getting worse, and a deep clean lifts the film that settles in them.

Prevention

• Rinse after every wear.
• Brush gently with water, not toothpaste.
• Deep clean a few times a week.
• Keep the retainer away from heat, which can also discolor plastic.

When it is time for a new one

If the retainer stays yellow or cloudy after a proper deep clean, the discoloration is in the plastic itself. Ask your orthodontist about a replacement.

This article is general care information and is not medical advice. Follow the instructions from your dentist, orthodontist or the maker of your appliance.