BRACES

Brace Staining: Causes and Solutions

Causes of Stained Teeth from Braces 

Plaque buildup is often the primary cause of teeth stains, with or without braces. When plaque is not removed from teeth with a proper oral hygiene routine, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is a yellow or brownish substance that can only be removed by a dental professional.  

In the case of braces, plaque can be tough to remove efficiently. Braces contain wires and brackets all of which can trap food particles, allowing plaque to build up and stains to take root.  

Plaque can also impact your tooth’s enamel. The acids that are released by plaque bacteria eat away at the tooth’s outermost layer causing white spots and discoloration.  

How to Remove Teeth Stains after Braces  

Teeth stains happen to everyone and, in most cases, are often easy to remove. If you notice white spots on your teeth after your braces have come off, be sure to maintain a good oral care routine to help remineralize tooth enamel and get rid of those stains.  

For more severe staining, speak to your dental professional for treatment recommendations, some treatment options include: 

  • Teeth Whitening and Enamel Care Toothpaste: Brushing with a whitening toothpaste can help lift surface stains so you can reveal a brighter smile. Oral-B 3D White Whitening Therapy Toothpaste, Enamel Care is formulated to remove surface stains and strengthen enamel.   

  • Composite Restoration: This treatment option involves applying a tooth-colored resin to damaged teeth to make them appear healthy and bright.  

  • Veneers: A more cosmetic method, this option applies thin, tooth-colored shells bonded over the front of discolored teeth.   

Prevent Stained Teeth from Braces 

A thorough oral care routine is often the best way to prevent tooth stains and discolorations from making an appearance on your smile.  

  • Brush teeth at least twice a day with the Oral-B iO Series 9 Rechargeable Toothbrush . Set the mode to Whiten to help break down surface stains to reveal a brighter smile.  

  • Floss at least once a day to remove more plaque and debris from tight spaces. Oral-B Super Floss is specially designed to help clean around braces and other dental appliances. To further remove stain-causing particles, supplement your regular flossing routine with the  Oral-B Aquacare Pro-Expert Irrigator, its unique Oxyjet Technology mixes air and water to form clean-boosting microbubbles.  

  • Swish with an enamel-strengthening mouthwash like Oral-B Gum & Enamel Care. The alcohol-free formula strengthens enamel while helping to keep gums in good condition.    

  • Visit your dental professional every 6 months for professional cleanings and checkups. 

  • Avoid foods that can add to plaque buildups such as sugars and starches.  

From Oral-B, the #1 dentist-recommended toothbrush brand worldwide. *

*Based on surveys carried out for P&G regularly. For verification, contact: ukcontact.im@pg.com

Sources: 

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/braces-stains