How to make them whiter?
Question:
Answers:
You are actually talking about two different issues here - whitening and white spots...
Unfortunately you cannot whiten with braces on. The whitening agent will not be able to get under where the brackets have been cemented onto the teeth. If you do use a product you run the risk of have different colored rectangles on the center of your teeth when the brackets are removed. Once you braces are removed have your teeth cleaned and then whiten them. Sorry I don't have any other options for you!
However...the white spots are caused by plaque that hasn't been cleaned off and has started to cause decay or "decalcify" the tooth. In order to prevent these you should be having regular dental cleanings and checkups. You should be brushing very often, flossing or using a proxybrush to clean in between the teeth and around the brackets and using an over the counter fluoride rinse like ACT or Fluorigard OR using a high concentration fluoride toothpaste prescribed by your dentist or orthodontist to help remineralize (build up the decalcified areas) susceptible areas. So do your home care and some rinsing along with good diet and hopefully you will be ok!
Hope that helps!
JAMRDH - a dental hygienist
I'm worried about the same thing. Keep the brushing going and also use mouthwash that's also a whitener. I know there's a new one out. Cut down on coffee and anything else that can stain teeth. Ask your orthodontist for more tips... they would know a lot about this.
The braces shouldnt leave marks on your teeth as long as you keep them clean. If youre worried about it you can always ask your dentist to whiten them for you when you get your braces off!
i've had braces twice dont worry what your doing is finee!! braces usually dont leave marks on your teeth i even know this girl who smoked while having braces for two years and she didnt get marks so dont worry. but it looks like the dental hygenist has got me beat. ha
More Questions & Answers...