Preventing Your Teeth From Becoming Discolored While Wearing Braces

Braces can transform your teeth to give you a perfectly straight, lovely smile. However, one thing people often feel anxious about is whether or not they'll end up having discolored teeth after having braces. If you're worried about this and have braces now or plan to get braces soon, this guide can help you to prevent the unsightly discoloration.

The Cause of Discoloration

Although people often think that the braces themselves are causing the discoloration, the reality is the complete opposite. While the braces are on your teeth, they protect the part of the tooth they're adhered to from making contact with discoloring substances, like coffee, and eroding acids.

When the braces come off, it may seem as though the space under the braces bracket is what's discolored, but it's actually all the exposed tooth around that area that's changed. The only way to prevent this is to take excellent care of your teeth with regular oral hygiene habits and some extra tools.

Water Flosser

In addition to flossing and brushing, a water flosser is an excellent tool to help keep your teeth tidy. Studies have found that water flossers actually outperformed regular flossing and brushing in reducing plaque, which can help to keep the enamel on your teeth from eroding. This should help to prevent the common translucent appearance of teeth that can come from plaque and food debris forming around the braces bracket.

Enamel Mouthwash

Regular mouthwash is a great idea for reducing bacteria in the mouth. However, an even better step is to use a mouthwash that helps to protect or rebuild tooth enamel. Enamel is your tooth's number one defense against plaque, acids, and other eroding substances, so keeping it in tip-top shape is important. Your dentist may have recommendations of specific brands, but any ADA-approved mouthwash that promises to strengthen enamel is a good choice.

Regular Dental Hygiene Checkups

Going to your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is more important than ever if you have braces. In fact, you may want to see your dentist more than once or twice yearly as typically recommended. Your dentist can deeply clean your teeth, removing any plaque or tartar buildup from around your braces before they cause lasting damage to your teeth. Ask your dentist if they have any advice on how often you should have your teeth cleaned while you have braces.

Keeping your teeth healthy and clean is the best way to prevent stains while you have braces. Following these tips will ensure that when your braces come off, your teeth will be as white and healthy-looking as they are straight.

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