We all aspire to have teeth that are sparkly, white, and perfectly aligned. A radiant smile with pearly white teeth is undoubted, a match made in heaven. But, the matter of fact is that not everyone is naturally blessed with an immaculate set of teeth. Imperfections are natural when it comes to dental aesthetics. Technology has been a boon when it comes to medical science, and dentistry is no exception. Scientific interventions can alter our teeth beyond recognition, and we tweak them to suit our benchmark. Braces are the most commonly used devices to correct teeth malformations such as a poor bite, crooked teeth, etc. Despite its advantages, maintaining oral hygiene while wearing braces can be quite a task. At times, there may be a gradual yellowing of teeth due to poor dental habits. The looming question, now, is if we can make our teeth whiter with braces on. Let us try and find out.
The dos and don’ts of teeth whitening with braces on
After stains develop on teeth, simply brushing them may not be enough to restore the erstwhile radiance. Additive whitening measures are necessary to remove strong extrinsic teeth stains. Numerous whitening agents or whitening methods can be used even with braces on, but it may result in varying shades of teeth after you remove the braces. Yet, if you are determined to whiten your teeth while wearing braces, there may be some safe options.
- An electric toothbrush may be the safest device to use for teeth whitening with braces on. It is more powerful and meticulous than a handheld toothbrush and can easily reach nooks and crannies within the mouth that we otherwise miss. Furthermore, it can also lift off surface stains and whiten the teeth. Electric toothbrushes do not have any side effects and can be used with any braces, but they may be too abrasive for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
- One of the most inexpensive, accessible, and safe teeth cleaning techniques is whitening strips. These strips are loaded with a bleaching agent designed to remove extrinsic stains from the teeth. They can be used regularly for more than a month. But, we can only use them with clear removable braces or lingual braces. Whitening agents are not the best option in traditional metal braces as they will only whiten the exposed part of the teeth, causing discoloration in the future.
- Whitening trays are another viable teeth whitening option. The process involves a bleaching gel and a customized whitening tray molded onto the teeth that are inserted into the mouth for thirty to sixty minutes. Whitening results are visible within two to three weeks. Just like whitening strips, whitening trays are most compatible with removable braces. The only potential side effect is sensitivity.
It is possible to whiten teeth even with braces, but the process may be a tad bit more complicated. Removable aligners and lingual braces are the most suitable when it comes to whitening agents.
Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.