If you wear braces, you are probably looking forward to the day you can see your newly straightened teeth. Admiring your beautiful smile is an amazing reward for diligently taking care of your teeth and oral health. You likely envision a mouthful of straight pearly whites staring back at you. However, there are times when teeth may be stained while wearing braces, which results in uneven coloring. This often occurs because it is more difficult to clean the plaque off your teeth while wearing braces. The most effective way to avoid tooth stains from braces is to take a few preventative measures. There are also a few treatment options you can choose from if you’ve had your braces removed and noticed discoloration. This article will discuss both preventative measures and treatment options for tooth stains from braces.
Causes of tooth stains from braces
Harmful bacteria, if left in your mouth, can cause plaque buildup, leading to staining. This bacteria excretes an acid that leaches minerals out of the tooth, which leaves behind a hollow part of your tooth that is whiter than the surrounding area. These white spots often leave a slight indentation and roughness as well.
Prevent tooth stains from braces with proper dental hygiene
The most important step to take to prevent stains on your teeth due to braces is to maintain a consistent oral health routine.
Brush and floss after every meal
Brushing and flossing after every meal helps remove bacteria that can lead to staining. Take special care to clean around your brackets. You may also want to consider adding a mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine to reach where your toothbrush and floss cannot. Many clients like using a Waterpik water flosser to tackle difficult to reach areas, such as in between their teeth and under their brackets.
Visit your orthodontist
Make sure to maintain your regularly scheduled visits with your orthodontist. During these maintenance appointments, your orthodontist replaces old bands with new ones, which can significantly help with plaque build-up. Food particles can get stuck in your bands, so having consistent cleanings and checkups can help prevent tooth stains from occurring.
Avoid food and drinks that stain teeth
Some food and drinks can stain teeth, especially those that are dark in color. Make sure to avoid coffee, tea, soda, red wine, soy sauce and tomato paste, as they can all cause stains on your teeth. If you are unable to avoid foods that stain, make sure you brush and floss well after consumption.
Get rid of tooth stains
If you do end up with stains on your teeth after your braces are removed, don’t fret, as there are a few proven methods for removing stubborn tooth stains.
Teeth Whitening
Your orthodontist may recommend teeth whitening after braces removal. Even if you do not have noticeable stains, teeth whitening can help brighten your smile and distribute even coloring.
Microabrasion
Another easy solution is to have microabrasion after your braces are removed. Microabrasion polishes teeth with pumice and diamond. This scrubs off the top layer of your tooth enamel, revealing a whiter and shinier enamel underneath.
Dental Veneers
In extreme cases, some clients opt to visit a cosmetic dentist to obtain dental veneers. Dental veneers consist of thin shells adhered to your teeth. Veneers can fix a variety of issues, including ensuring a consistent look and color. Veneers can also cover any chips or cracks and prevent future discoloration.
With a few simple steps, you can prevent tooth stains left behind from braces. And even if you end up with uneven coloring, there are many treatment options to choose from that will allow you to love your smile.
