We all know that braces can dramatically improve the look of a person’s smile. But if you’re not careful, they can cause problems for the look of your smile, too. While braces work to shift and straighten the teeth, they are also attached to the surface of the tooth for a long period of time. For some patients, this can lead to unattractive stains on the teeth. Luckily though, you can avoid these stains in a few simple steps. Read on for 4 easy ways to avoid braces stains.
1- Know the Causes of Staining
Firstly, braces themselves don’t cause staining. However, brackets can make it easier for plaque to collect in the mouth. This plaque can gather along your brackets and wires, which causes a noticeable difference when your brackets are removed. An easy way to limit this is to avoid foods and drinks that cause stains, such as coffee, red wine, and tomato sauce.
2- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene while wearing braces is the easiest way to avoid staining. Regular brushing and flossing will eliminate plaque and food debris before it can affect the color of your teeth. Be sure to gently clean all surfaces of your braces, including the brackets and wires.
3- Get Regular Dental Cleanings
The dentist can remove stubborn plaque that your toothbrush misses. Be sure to visit the dentist every six months. They will not only help you keep your teeth white, but can also check for tooth decay and damage to your braces.
4- Avoid Whitening Products (For Now)
It’s tempting to use whitening toothpaste to avoid braces stains. However, this is not a good idea. Since braces are anchored to the teeth, toothpaste cannot reach underneath the surface of your brackets. This can lead to embarrassing marks on the teeth once your braces are removed. After your braces treatment, you can easily whiten your teeth.
Talk To Your Dentist
Still worried about braces stains? Talk to your dentist. He or she can help you create a personalized hygiene plan to avoid stains and boost your oral health. The Smile Artisans have decades of experience with braces care and would love to help you care for your smile. Call us today to book your appointment with us.