You just got your braces on, and the goal is to have a dazzling new smile once they are removed. The key now is to follow your orthodontist’s instructions so that you don’t end up with stained teeth after your braces are removed. The experts at Cavalancia Orthodontics share these tips on how you can avoid stains while wearing braces.
How Do Stains Happen?
Braces don’t actually stain your teeth, but it is easy for food to get trapped in the brackets leading to bacteria buildup that causes plaque to form. If the plaque isn’t removed, it creates acids that leach minerals from the enamel. When this happens, it can result in the unsightly white spots, other discoloration, and the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
No one wants to wear braces for a long time, ending up with white spots or other stains when they are removed. Follow these tips to avoid stains while wearing braces:
Foods Matter
The first thing you should limit is sugar and soda because they can cause white, yellow, and brown spots. Sugar and the carbonation in soda break down the enamel on your teeth. When you drink soda or eat sugary foods, the area around the brackets will wear down more than the area underneath your brackets, leaving you with an uneven color when your braces are removed.
Brush, Brush, Brush
When you wear braces, you should be brushing your teeth at least four times a day. Brush your teeth in the morning, after every meal, and before you go to bed. While it may seem excessive, it will help prevent white spots or uneven coloring on your teeth. If you don’t have a toothbrush when you are out, rinse your mouth with water to help get rid of any food stuck in your braces.
Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned
Keep up with visits to the dentist to get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. A professional cleaning can clean areas that are hard for you to reach with regular brushing and flossing, so don’t skip any trips to the dentist.
Contact Your Johnstown, PA Orthodontist Today!
If you have more questions about how to avoid stains while wearing braces or want to schedule an appointment, contact us. Our team will be happy to answer all of your questions.
If you are looking for a leading orthodontist in Johnstown or Indiana, PA, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We would love to help you achieve a dazzling new smile!