Life with braces can be an adjustment. Certain lifestyle changes are necessary to ensure that your smile is straight and glowing once the braces are off. Stained teeth are a common concern for all dental patients, but can be especially worrisome if you wear braces. After all, you don’t want your teeth to be one color in the center of your tooth where the brackets once were and another color surrounding that.

Here are 5 simple tips to help prevent stained teeth while wearing braces:

1. Avoid Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is not a good idea for anyone wearing braces. That’s because the brackets obstruct the toothbrush from getting to every part of the front of the tooth. If a whitening toothpaste is applied, some areas may end up whiter than others by the end of your orthodontic treatment. We recommend you avoid whitening toothpaste and stick to a regular fluoride-containing toothpaste instead. If you have sensitive teeth, toothpaste made specially for sensitivity is also great. Just make sure it isn’t whitening.

2. Brush & Floss Your Teeth Every Day

Brushing and flossing with braces are extremely important in order to remove food particles and bacteria trapped between your teeth, brackets, and wires. Gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush using a circular motion as you go. A 45 degree angle can help you get to the hard-to-reach spaces between wires and your teeth, as well as an interdental brush.

Additionally, we recommend a combination of water flossing and string flossing. Water flossing utilizes a stream of pressured water to dislodge food particles between your teeth, around your brackets, and from under your gumline. To make string flossing easier, use a floss threader. Let us know if you want a demonstration of proper brushing and flossing technique at your next appointment!

3. Keep Regularly Scheduled Dental & Orthodontic Visits

Professional dental cleanings will reduce chances of enamel damage and help get rid of stains. A qualified dental hygienist will thoroughly remove any accumulated plaque and tartar, and your dentist will check whether you’re taking good care of your teeth. Be sure to attend your orthodontic checkups too so you can get the most out of your orthodontic treatment! Skipping your orthodontic appointments can mean longer in your braces, and more risk for your teeth to develop color differences.

4. LIMIT Staining Foods & Beverages

Coffee, tea, wine, tobacco products, and items that contain food coloring can stain your teeth. Although we know it’s difficult, try to avoid or minimize these staining items. If you do end up drinking staining beverages, try doing so through a straw and always drink plenty of water during and after.