Braces boost your self-confidence by straightening your teeth and correcting issues including overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, and underbites. But even as braces improve the appearance of your smile, you still might be self-conscious if your teeth are not pearly white. You may be wondering whether you can whiten your teeth while wearing braces, especially if your orthodontic treatment is supposed to last a year or longer. Read on to learn why we do not recommend teeth whitening while wearing braces.
Uneven Whitening
Since traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that are placed on the front surfaces of your teeth, whitening products would not be able brighten the portions of your teeth that are covered up. If you use whitening strips, gels, or toothpastes when you have braces, the exposed parts of your teeth could get whiter, but whitening products would not make a difference underneath the brackets and wires. As a result, your teeth would have a noticeably uneven color once your braces are removed. For the best results, you should wait until after your braces are removed to whiten your teeth.
Increased Sensitivity
Some teeth whitening products can make your teeth more sensitive and even irritate your gums. That is because these products contain abrasive agents that are designed to remove stains from your enamel. Braces can already increase tooth and gum sensitivity for some patients, so we recommend avoiding abrasive whitening products to make your orthodontic treatment as comfortable as possible.
Keeping Your Teeth White While Wearing Braces
Regardless of whether or not you have braces, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a bright, white smile. Do not smoke or use other tobacco products, and avoid acidic drinks like coffee, tea, and soda, as these can all stain your teeth. Everyone should brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day for two minutes each time and floss once a day, but people who wear braces need to be extra diligent about their oral hygiene. You should avoid sticky, sugary foods that can easily get stuck behind the brackets and wires of your braces and contribute to enamel erosion, cavities, and discoloration. You should also brush after every meal if you wear braces, or at least rinse your mouth out with water to loosen food particles and neutralize the sugars and acids that can lead to tooth discoloration. For more tips on caring for your teeth while wearing braces, call us today.
About Us | Orthodontist Kennett Square, PA | Greeley Orthodontics We take the time to review your medical history and conduct an oral examination to get a clear picture of your health. Learn more about us here! Greeley Orthodontics - Connie Greeley, 400 Old Forge Lane Suite 406, Kennett Square, PA 19348, 484-346-6008, greeleyortho.com, 10/5/2024, Key Phrases: orthodontist Kennett Square PA,
Braces boost your self-confidence by straightening your teeth and correcting issues including overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, and underbites. But even as braces improve the appearance of your smile, you still might be self-conscious if your teeth are not pearly white. You may be wondering whether you can whiten your teeth while wearing braces, especially if your orthodontic treatment is supposed to last a year or longer. Read on to learn why we do not recommend teeth whitening while wearing braces.