7 Insanely Amazing Options to Whiten Teeth with Braces

Braces and a bright smile are a dynamic duo. We know braces work on straightening your teeth, but you might notice your pearly whites turning, well, not-so-pearly. Yellowing teeth with braces is common, but there’s a relief. You can whiten them without compromising your orthodontic routine. 

Let’s understand how to whiten teeth with braces. 

Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow with Braces?

Before jumping into solutions, let’s understand the “why.” 

Food particles and plaque prefer to hide in the tiny crevices created by braces. It can lead to discolouration, especially if your oral hygiene routine isn’t on point. The brackets themselves don’t stain your teeth, but improper cleaning around them can cause spots.

Can You Whiten Your Teeth with Braces?

Whitening teeth with braces is possible, but it requires a bit of finesse. Some methods, like whitening strips, might not work well with traditional braces because they can’t reach beneath the brackets. 

However, there are many other ways to brighten your smile safely. 

How to Whiten Teeth with Braces? DIY Tips & Treatment Options

At-home methods are budget-friendly and easy to do. 

1. Good Old Baking Soda

Baking soda is mildly abrasive, which means it can scrub away surface stains without harming your enamel when used properly.

• Apply the baking soda + water paste to your teeth carefully using a toothbrush with soft bristles. 
• Use tiny circular strokes to brush, paying particular attention to the discoloured regions surrounding the brackets.
• Use water to rinse your mouth thoroughly.

Avoid using too much baking soda. Although it is a natural cleanser, over usage of its abrasive properties can erode enamel. For optimal effects, limit this treatment to once or twice per week.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Hydrogen peroxide isn’t just for cleaning cuts. It is a common component of many teeth-whitening solutions. It’s a safe and efficient method of teeth whitening when diluted appropriately.

• Add equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide (3% solution).
• Spend roughly 30 seconds swishing the fluid around your mouth. Don’t swallow it, please!

The oxygen molecules released by hydrogen peroxide aid in the removal of surface stains on your teeth. It’s the same ingredient dentists use in professional whitening treatments, though at higher concentrations.

Hydrogen peroxide can cause sensitivity if overused. Limit this treatment to two or three times a week, and always dilute it with water to protect your gums and enamel.

3. Coconut Oil Pulling

While it may not provide overnight results, it’s an excellent way to maintain overall oral health and reduce surface stains.

• Take one spoonful organic coconut oil. Let it melt in your mouth if it’s solid because it melts rapidly at body temperature.
• Spend 10 to 15 minutes swishing the oil around your mouth. Move it between your teeth, focusing on all areas.

4. Orthodontist-Approved Whitening Gels

Whitening gels are a popular choice for patients with braces. These gels are applied using custom-fitted trays that work around your brackets.

• Custom trays fit snugly around your teeth, avoiding contact with brackets or wires.
• You can use them at home under the guidance of your orthodontist, making them convenient.

5. In-Office Whitening Treatments

Dentists and orthodontists offer in-office whitening solutions for those looking for professional-grade results. These treatments are tailored to work around your braces, ensuring no uneven whitening.

• Precision: Dentists can target areas around your brackets for a uniform look.
• Safety: Treatments are conducted under expert supervision, reducing the risk of sensitivity or enamel damage.

6. Crest White Strips and Similar Products

Whitening strips can be a tempting solution, but they aren’t ideal for people with traditional braces. The reason? The strips only cover the exposed surfaces of your teeth, leaving the areas under the brackets untouched. It can lead to uneven whitening once your braces are removed.

If you’re using clear aligners like Invisalign, whitening strips can be a great choice. Since aligners are removable, you can whiten your entire tooth surface without interference.

7. Whitening Toothpaste

One easy and reasonably priced method to keep your smile dazzling is to incorporate whitening toothpaste into your daily regimen. These toothpastes frequently include baking soda or hydrogen peroxide together with moderate abrasives to remove surface stains.

Look out for:

• Fluoride: Prevents cavities and fortifies enamel.
• Sensitivity Protection: If teeth whitening solutions make you uncomfortable, use a formula for sensitive teeth.
• Orthodontic-Friendly: Some toothpastes are specifically formulated for people with braces, ensuring they won’t damage brackets or wires.

Don’t expect dramatic results from toothpaste alone. Whitening toothpastes are best for maintaining brightness rather than achieving significant whitening.

Read More: What You Can and Can’t Eat with Braces?

How to Whiten Teeth Overnight (Without a Magic Wand)?

While true overnight whitening isn’t possible, you can make noticeable improvements with these tips:

• Use a whitening toothpaste before bed.
• Try the hydrogen peroxide rinse.
• Sleep with your aligners (if you use Invisalign) after applying whitening gel inside them.

Final Thoughts

Always check with your orthodontist before trying any home remedy. With some effort and patience, you will soon have a bright, beautiful smile waiting for you when your braces come off.

Contact Orthodontics Scottsdale to find safe and effective whitening options for braces!

People Also Ask!

Can I Whiten My Teeth While Having Braces?

Yes, but avoid methods like whitening strips that don’t work well with braces. Stick to safe, orthodontist-approved options.

How Do I Get Rid of Yellow Teeth with Braces?

Maintain excellent oral hygiene, use whitening toothpaste, and consider safe at-home remedies like baking soda or hydrogen peroxide rinses.

Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow with Braces?

Food particles and plaque buildup cause discoloration. Regular cleaning and avoiding staining foods (like coffee and soda) can help.

Can I Put Whitening Strips on with Braces?

You can, but they won’t whiten areas under the brackets, leading to uneven results.