You spend one, two, or even three years straightening your teeth with braces, and you look forward to seeing the life-changing results. However, not brushing your teeth properly during your orthodontic treatment can leave you with discoloration and white spots. You may have straighter teeth, but now you have discoloration that can often be permanent. What causes these teeth stains from braces, and how can you prevent them?

What Causes Teeth Stains from Braces?

Traditional braces use wires and brackets. These materials work together to apply pressure to and align your teeth; however, their nooks and crannies also make it easy for them to trap food while eating.

If these bits of food are not brushed away, plaque forms. Plaque causes yellowing and discoloration, as well as tooth decay, severe cavities, and even gum disease. It also causes acidity that strips the minerals from your teeth, leaving behind soft white spots on teeth which are often permanent. Because its caught in the tight spaces in your braces, plaque can be difficult to remove. What is a person to do?

Tips and Prevention

The most important thing a person can do to prevent teeth stains from braces is avoid sugary foods and drinks and brush twice daily.

If you consume something sugary, don’t brush your teeth right away. Your teeth need time to wash away the leftover acidic bacteria. If you were to brush your teeth right away, you could damage your enamel more than you know. Instead, wait about 30 minutes before brushing.

Also, when you’re brushing, avoid toothpaste with whitening treatments. They only whiten the exposed portion of the tooth, worsening the staining and discoloration of your teeth. It’s almost like a tan line for your teeth!

Other helpful tips for keeping your smile healthy include:

  • Floss every day. Patients should be flossing at least once a day. Sometimes flossing is difficult with braces. If you have trouble with floss, water picks are a great alternative.
  • Visit your dentist. Maintain your regular cleanings. Patients should be going to their dentist every six months for proper cleaning.
  • Avoid foods that stain your teeth. We all love a fresh cup of coffee in the morning but drinking too much of it can leave your teeth yellow and discolored. Avoid soda and other sugary drinks. Foods you should stay away from include anything with dyes or high-sugar contents, like taffy, gum, or other candy.

Get Braces from Exeter Orthodontics

At Exeter Orthodontics, patients can find traditional braces for only $3,995. This price includes x-rays, retainers, adjustments, and repairs. No hidden fees mean you can focus on keeping your smile healthy and happy and not the steep budgets that sometimes come with it! During regular visits with our team, we’ll ensure your treatment runs smoothly and help you prevent teeth stains from braces with helpful tips and tricks.

To learn more, request a free consultation. We have offices in Allentown, Exton, Springfield, Harrisburg, Reading, and Millersville.