How to Maintain a Bright Smile During Orthodontic Treatment
One of the biggest concerns patients have is how their teeth will look after orthodontic treatment. Specifically, if their teeth will be stained around their brackets and Invisalign buttons or if their teeth will yellow overall. We’re here to give you tips on how to keep your smile white throughout your treatment!
Our Tips
Did you know how important it is to brush and floss during your braces or Invisalign treatment? Dr. Aaron Crossley is a board-certified orthodontist and wants you to take care of your smile for your overall health!
At Crossley Orthodontics in Frisco and Flower Mound, TX, we’re here to help you keep your smile shining throughout your treatment, especially because orthodontic treatment makes this more important than ever! Stubborn food particles and plaque can easily build up or get trapped around brackets and aligners, leading to discoloration and cavities. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, but ideally after every meal. If you have braces be sure to clean thoroughly around the brackets and wires. Flossing can be tricky, but tools like floss threaders or orthodontic floss make it easier to clean!
For Invisalign users, remove your aligners before flossing and brush them separately. Rinsing with a mouthwash is another great way to reduce bacteria and strengthen enamel.
Things You May Not Realize
Drinking water is so important, in fact, it’s just as crucial as brushing and flossing your teeth. Hydration not only keeps you refreshed but also helps wash away food particles and bacteria, especially after meals when brushing isn’t immediately possible.
Certain foods and drinks can stain your teeth, particularly if you’re wearing braces. Even yellow mustard and some sauces can stain your teeth! Coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and dark-colored berries are common culprits. If you can’t avoid these drinks, try drinking through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Stay Consistent
Regular dental cleanings are essential during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that’s hard to reach at home, helping to prevent staining and decay. Using orthodontic-friendly tools like interdental brushes or water flossers can also make a big difference, since they are made to get in those hard-to-reach areas between your brackets and teeth!
Regular check-ups allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress and address any issues, like staining or decay around brackets. Once your treatment is complete, wearing your retainer as instructed will help maintain your new smile.
Schedule With Us Today
At Crossley Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Keep your teeth bright and your treatment on track with these tips. If you have any questions, reach out to our offices in Frisco or Flower Mound.
Dr. Crossley is conveniently located at: 12828 Eldorado Pkwy. Suite 100 Frisco, TX 75035 • (214) 556-6868 and 651 Cross Timbers Rd. Suite 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028 • (972) 221-2515