Braces can do wonders for your smile, but they can also make it challenging to keep your teeth white. With wires and brackets covering your teeth, it becomes quite a task to properly clean all surfaces, which can lead to discoloration and staining. However, there are ways to keep your teeth clean and white while wearing those braces. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to maintain a bright, white smile while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
When trying to maintain white teeth, good oral hygiene is critical, especially when you’re wearing braces. This is because tiny particles of food and plaque can easily get trapped in between those metal brackets and wires, which can lead to discoloration and decay of your teeth. To prevent this, it’s important to brush your teeth properly at least two times a day and floss at least once every day.
When you are looking for teeth whitening with braces, it’s essential to use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging the wires and brackets. Additionally, using an interdental brush or water flosser can help clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth and around brackets.
Avoid Certain Type of Foods and Drinks
Few kinds of foods and drinks can cause discoloration and staining, especially when you’re wearing braces. It’s best to avoid or limit your consumption of dark-colored foods and drinks like tea, coffee, red wine, etc. If you cannot keep away from such items, make sure to brush your teeth immediately after your meals to minimize the staining effect.
Additionally, you also need to check your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Sugar can contribute to the buildup of plaque and decay, which can further lead to staining and discoloration of your teeth.
Use Whitening Products
According to some of the most experienced Orthodontists in Issaquah WA, there are several whitening products available that can help keep your teeth white while wearing braces. Often referred to as whitening toothpaste and mouthwash, these can help remove existing surface stains and prevent new ones from forming. Be sure to choose a whitening toothpaste that is safe for use with braces and doesn’t contain abrasive particles that can damage the brackets and wires.
Another option is using whitening trays or strips. While these products can be effective, it is advisable to use such items only under the guidance of your orthodontist. Improper use can damage your braces or cause uneven whitening.
Get Professional Teeth Whitening
If you’re looking for a more effective and long-lasting solution for teeth whitening with braces, professional teeth whitening is the most viable option for you. Your orthodontist can recommend a whitening treatment that is safe for use with braces and can help you achieve the results you desire.
Professional teeth whitening can either be done in-office or at your home, all you need are a few custom trays and whitening gel. Your orthodontist will ensure that the treatment is planned around your specific needs and will keep a check on your progress to ensure the best results.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are quite important for maintaining good oral health, especially when you’re wearing braces. Your orthodontist can monitor your progress, check for any issues, and provide guidance on how to keep your teeth and braces clean.
During your dental checkups, your orthodontist can also perform a professional cleaning to remove any stubborn stains or discoloration. This can help keep your teeth white and healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Consider Clear Aligners
If you’re concerned about discoloration and staining while wearing braces, clear aligners may be a better option for you. Clear aligners, like Invisalign Issaquah, are made of transparent plastic and offer the flexibility to be taken out for eating and cleaning. This makes it much easier when it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding the staining effects of braces.
Additionally, clear aligners can be used in conjunction with teeth whitening treatments, allowing you to achieve a bright, white smile while straightening your teeth.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, keeping your teeth white while wearing braces requires a little extra effort, but it is definitely achievable with these tips and tricks. By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods and drinks, using whitening products, getting professional teeth whitening, maintaining regular dental checkups, and considering clear aligners, you can keep your teeth white and healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Remember to always follow the advice of your orthodontist and dentist to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health and overall well-being.
