Many people use teeth whitening products to get a bright smile. However, it can be trickier to whiten your teeth when you have braces that cover some of the surface area of your pearly whites. There are a few things to keep in mind when using teeth whitening products with braces. First, it’s important to consult with your orthodontist before starting any kind of whitening regimen. This is because some whitening products can actually damage braces, making them less effective. Additionally, some whitening products may not be as effective when used on teeth that have brackets and wires attached to them.
If you do decide to whiten your teeth while wearing braces, there are a few different options available. Traditional whitening strips and trays will generally not work with braces (via Healthline). This is because they cannot fit over the brackets and effectively whiten the rest of your teeth. On the other hand, you can use whitening toothpaste and mouthwash to whiten your teeth when you have braces. While these methods may not be quite as effective as strips or trays, they can keep your teeth white and your braces safe.
How to take care of your braces
Wearing braces is a big commitment, and you want to be sure that you are taking care of them properly to ensure that they are effective and that your smile looks its best. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your braces.
Brush your teeth regularly and thoroughly. This is important for both your oral health in general and for keeping your braces clean (via Sprout Pediatric Dentistry). Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including around the brackets and wires. You may find it helpful to use an electric toothbrush or a water flosser. You should also floss daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, which can reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. When flossing with braces, be sure to use a floss threader to help get the floss under the wires.
Avoid hard and sticky foods (via Absolute Dental). Chewing on hard objects can damage your braces, while sticky foods can become stuck in them and be difficult to remove. Both of these can lead to increased wear and tear on your braces as well as oral health problems. Finally, see your orthodontist regularly. This is important to ensure that your braces are working properly and that your smile is progressing as it should. Be sure to keep all of your scheduled appointments and let your orthodontist know of any problems or concerns you have.
