Many patients who have braces are often concerned about the treatment staining their teeth and may wonder – can you whiten your teeth with braces? To help answer this question, we took a closer look at using a whitening treatment during your orthodontic treatment and will ensure that you have all of the information you need to keep your teeth healthy, happy and strong.
Table Of Contents
Can You Whiten Your Teeth With Braces?
You can whiten your teeth with braces – but you need to make sure that you are following the advice of dentists and other experts to reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity and damage.
This means following advice and guidance for great dental health, including:
- Regular Flossing
It is important to floss or use interdental brushes ideally every night – and this is especially important when you are wearing braces. Regular flossing removes any unwanted debris from between your teeth which can result in decay and damage.
- Use Dentist-Approved Products
Use whitening products that have been approved by your dentist – this will reduce the risk of damage from products.
Can you use an electric toothbrush with braces? Find out here.
How To Whiten Teeth With Braces
We have a few top options to help you enjoy bright white teeth in no time:
- Teeth Strips
Teeth whitening strips are amongst the most popular options – these are made of plastic and work by bleaching surface stains on your teeth using either hydrogen or carbamide peroxide, reducing the appearance of tooth discoloration and creating a wider smile.
For those with traditional braces, however, these are unlikely to be a suitable teeth whitening treatment.
- Whitening Toothpaste
A better option for those wearing braces are whitening toothpastes. These work by using an abrasive formula to remove surface stains, and can be easier for orthodontic treatment, as you will be brushing your teeth twice a day to prevent plaque build-up, and can help to keep your teeth white, clean and healthy.
Another popular option is a whitening mouthwash, and these work by including low concentrations of potassium pyrophosphate, sodium citrate and sodium hexametaphosphate, which bleach the teeth or remove stains.
Some dentists warn against using whitening products such as toothpaste and mouthwashes for an extended period of time, as there is a risk that this can cause long-term damage to the enamel, leaving the tooth exposed and increasing the risk of sensitivity.
- Use An LED or UV Light
Using LED or UV light can lighten your teeth, and works by applying a hydrogen peroxide solution to your teeth. This acts as a catalyst for an oxidation reaction that breaks down the bonds of any discolored molecules, reducing stains. An LED or UV light is then applied to set the gel, speeding up the process of dissolving stains and teeth whitening.
If you want to know more, you can visit our blog posts on Does UV light whiten your teeth and Does an LED light whiten teeth. And if you choose this method, check out our best teeth whitening light reviews.
Yellow Teeth With Braces – Possible Causes
You may be wondering why yellow teeth can be more common with braces – and we have put together all you need to know.
Why Are My Teeth Turning Yellow With Braces?
Teeth turning yellow with braces are usually the result of poor hygiene and daily care. It is important to brush your teeth twice a day with an electric toothbrush and to use floss or interdental brushes to remove any unwanted debris in the evening, and to reduce the buildup of plaque.
It is also possible that there is an underlying cause behind yellow teeth, so it is important to make sure that you are regularly checked out by a dentist.
How To Get Rid Of Yellow Teeth With Braces
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If You Use A Whitening Toothpaste With Braces?
Using a whitening toothpaste with braces bleaches the stains on your teeth, helping them to appear less visible, and leaving teeth free from stains and marks. It is important to be careful, however, as this type of toothpaste can be abrasive, and so regular breaks should be taken. Also, make sure to use a dentist-approved product.
How Can You Make Your Teeth Whiter With Braces Overnight?
You can make your teeth whiter with braces overnight by using a specialist light treatment administered by your dentist – this typically offers the fastest results, and will allow you to see brighter, whiter teeth more quickly. Other options include whitening toothpastes, and avoiding food and drink that can stain the teeth.
How To Naturally Whiten Your Teeth With Braces?
You can naturally whiten your teeth with braces by following basic cleaning and oral hygiene procedures such as brushing twice a day with a whitening toothpaste, followed by a mouthwash. You should also use floss or an interproximal brush for best results, and use electric toothbrushes. All of these steps will help your teeth to stay healthy and free from food debris, improving their overall appearance.
Is Baking Soda Good For Your Teeth?
Yes, baking soda is good for your teeth. Baking soda contains ingredients that help to prevent initial tooth decay, as well as working to actively remineralize your teeth – this is perfect if you have sensitive teeth, or have overdone it with abrasive substances, as you can enjoy white teeth without the risk of damage.
Is Hydrogen Peroxide Safe For Teeth?
Yes, hydrogen peroxide is totally safe for teeth, provided that it is in concentrations of 2% or less. This means that you can use it for having your teeth whitened without concern – for best results, head to your dentist’s office to have this treatment administered safely to reduce the risk of damage to your teeth.
Conclusion
So, can you whiten your teeth with braces? The simple answer is yes – there are a number of methods and techniques that you can use to whiten your teeth, even when you have braces fitted. Oral hygiene is important for overall health, so taking care of your teeth should be a key priority.
