Wearing braces is an ideal way of achieving an attractive smile. However, keeping your teeth white with the braces on can be tricky. That is because some braces have brackets attached to the front surface of the teeth. The brackets can prevent whitening agents from reaching the tooth enamel beneath, which may lead to uneven shades if not applied correctly.

Luckily, there are various methods to keep a pearl-white smile while straightening your teeth, particularly when you are under the care of a professional dentist. The best option that will work for you depends on the kind of braces you are wearing. Read on to learn about these methods.

Whitening Strips

Generally, whitening strips utilize a peroxide gel or bleaching agent to disintegrate teeth stains and lift them off your teeth surfaces. These are cost-effective at-home teeth whitening techniques that are safe and effective. You or your dental professional applies the whitening strips directly to the teeth for a maximum of forty-five minutes twice or once daily (or as per the manufacturer’s instructions).

Whitening strips have possible side effects for people with braces. The bleaching agent in the strips can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation in some individuals.

Also, there are limitations to using these whitening strips. You can use them solely with lingual braces (brackets and metals attached to the rear of teeth) or clear, removable aligners. Unluckily, whitening strips are not ideal if you are wearing conventional metal braces, since they will solely whiten the visible surfaces of teeth and will not go through the enamel underneath the bonded brackets. When this happens, you have an uneven or two-tone color on your teeth after you remove the braces.

Whitening strips range from $30 to $40 for a thirty-day supply. You can buy the strips from your nearest pharmacy or your dental professional.

Whitening Trays

Whitening trays are another option to make teeth white when you have braces. It entails utilizing a custom-made LED whitening tray system and bleaching gel. You will put a small quantity of the bleaching agent in the tray and then place the tray in the mouth for a minimum of thirty to sixty minutes. Repeat the treatment daily until you obtain the desired outcome, generally two to three weeks.

The side effects of whitening trays may include experiencing tooth or gum sensitivity. However, if you do not experience sensitivity or irritation, you can put the tray on for an extended period, for example, up to two hours per treatment session.

Whitening trays also have limitations for people wearing braces. Because the bleaching tray is placed on your tooth surfaces, this is not an ideal option for conventional metal braces. Whitening trays only work with removable aligners and lingual braces. The trays might not fit perfectly with lingual dental braces.

The price of over-the-counter whitening trays varies based on whether you buy the kit from your dental professional or in-store. In-store trays cost about $30, while your dentist may charge about $100 or higher. You can purchase your tray from a pharmacy, dentist, or online.

Whitening Mouthwash and Toothpaste

Even though you cannot use whitening trays or strips with conventional metal braces, several daily dental care products may brighten your smile.

For example, whitening toothpastes often have abrasive particles such as silica. These scrub off the tooth surface stains. Some toothpastes may also have chemicals that assist in dissolving stains. Whitening mouthwash, on the other hand, freshens breath and safeguards the teeth against newly developing stains.

For effective results, use the toothpaste twice or thrice daily and the mouthwash once daily. The possible side effects of whitening mouthwash and toothpaste are that some toothpastes do not contain bleach; thus, they have a lower chance of causing gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. However, some whitening toothpastes might be highly abrasive and will wear off tooth enamel, resulting in sensitivity.

There are no limitations to mouthwash and toothpaste. You can use them regardless of the kind of braces you have. These products range between $20 and $30 for the mouthwash and $10 and $15 for the toothpaste. You can purchase your mouthwash and toothpaste at a grocery store, pharmacy, or online.

Electric Toothbrush

You can also use an electric toothbrush to make your teeth white. This toothbrush also lifts surface stains. Electric toothbrushes do not include any chemical agent that changes your teeth's color. However, they can eliminate surface stains more effectively than a standard toothbrush. This will achieve a brighter smile.

Use the electric toothbrush similarly to how you would use a standard toothbrush. Some of these toothbrushes have a unique orthodontic toothbrush head for braces. You can shop for these online.

Electric toothbrushes have a few possible side effects. For example, the quick, automatic bristle motions may be uncomfortable if your teeth or gums are sensitive to hot or cold things. Go for a toothbrush with varying speed settings to minimize sensitivity.

There are no limitations to using an electric toothbrush. You can use it regardless of the type of braces you have. The cost of these toothbrushes ranges between $10 and $70. You can purchase them online or from most pharmacies.

Professional Teeth Whitening

A dentist can conduct in-office teeth whitening for an optimal outcome. The most efficient treatment options for your teeth are accompanied by protective practices for your mouth and gums. Whether the treatment is proper while you are wearing braces is something you will discuss with your dentist.

The professional dental whitening process entails in-office procedures that a dentist performs using more potent whitening agents and possibly light activation to realize a noticeable outcome. These procedures brighten teeth by many shades in one dental visit. Alternatively, the dentist can provide customized trays with professional-strength whitening gel to use at home.

  • Preparation for Professional Teeth Whitening

Before the professional whitening procedure, you must hold a consultation appointment with your dentist. During the appointment, you will discuss your dental history, general health, and desired results. Also, sharing any ongoing dental problems, like gum and teeth issues, that need addressing before the procedure can kick off is crucial.

The dentist will also check your teeth to see whether professional treatment suits you. It is essential to remember that existing dental work, like veneers and crowns, does not respond to traditional whitening agents. If the professional whitening procedure is viable, your dentist will assist you in determining which whitening technique or product will produce the most effective outcome.

  • Professional Teeth Whitening Procedure

During the professional whitening procedure, your dentist will smear a potent whitening gel (usually the one containing hydrogen peroxide) on your teeth, sometimes using a laser or light to speed up the process. Generally, the procedure lasts thirty to sixty minutes per session, and you might need several visits to realize the desired shade.

Professional whitening is more effective than at-home whitening procedures. It provides quicker results than at-home options. Also, supervision by a dental professional ensures safety and reduces possible side effects such as gum irritation or tooth sensitivity.

Professional whitening procedure costs vary based on the dental office and treatment plan. However, the charge is typically higher than over-the-counter options.

Professional teeth whitening may have limitations for people wearing braces. Because the dentist places the whitening gel on the tooth surface, it may not be a good option for traditional metal braces. Professional teeth whitening will only work optimally with removable aligners and lingual braces.

Preventing Teeth Stains While Wearing Dental Braces Can Also Keep Teeth White

Rather than waiting for your teeth to become stained and then finding a solution to remove the stains, you can take preventive measures. Prevention is better than cure, and preventing the stains in the first place can also keep teeth white. Some preventive measures you should take include the following:

Brushing Effectively and Regularly

Brushing teeth is critical for everybody. However, it is particularly crucial for those people with braces. Brush teeth after each meal, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush. Focus primarily on the places around your wires and brackets. This will remove plaque buildup and food particles.

If reaching certain areas is challenging, consider utilizing an electric or orthodontic toothbrush. Either of these toothbrushes could make brushing an easier, more effective task. Note that maintaining the cleanliness of your teeth will avert discoloration, enabling you to keep your smile.

Daily Flossing

Flossing may seem tricky when you have braces, but it is essential. Utilize an orthodontic floss or floss threader to lean around the braces and between teeth. This assists in removing plaque that regular brushing alone may miss. Flossing daily will also help you maintain healthy gums and lower the likelihood of dental caries.

If you are unsure how proper flossing is done when someone has braces, ask for tips from your dental professional. They will guide you on the ideal tools and techniques to apply. Making flossing a daily routine will yield results in the long run.

Watching the Food You Eat

The food you eat plays a substantial role in your teeth’s color. While you have braces on, you want to avoid particular foods that could cause teeth staining. Be careful with dark drinks like soda, tea, and coffee. These can result in discoloration with time.

Also, avoid sugary and acidic foods. These can lead to plaque accumulation and dental cavities. Instead, focus on a diet rich in vegetables and fruits. Foods such as carrots, celery, and apples can naturally assist in whitening your teeth.

Scheduling Routine Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are crucial, even if you have a meticulous oral care practice. You want to schedule routine dental visits for cleanings and checkups. Your dental professional can assist you in removing any tartar or plaque accumulation you may have missed.

Professional cleanings can also assist in keeping your teeth healthy while you wear braces. Your dental professional can also provide customized tips depending on your unique needs.

Rinsing Your Mouth

You should rinse thoroughly with water whenever you drink or eat anything, particularly acidic or sugary foods. Not only will this help your teeth, but it will also help clean the braces and eliminate the particles that cause plaque. Aim to do this even when you cannot brush immediately after eating.

Using Mouthwash

Including mouthwash in your dental care routine can enhance your efforts. Select a fluoride-based mouthwash to help strengthen your tooth enamel and keep your mouth fresh. Rinsing with mouthwash can also assist in removing lingering bacteria and food particles. Practice using mouthwash daily. It is a simple method that can make a considerable difference in keeping your teeth white while you have braces.

Try Using An Interproximal Brush

Orthodontists suggest interproximal brushes, sometimes known as in-betweeners, to target particles mixed in among your braces. They are just maneuverable and small enough to reach places a larger toothbrush cannot.

Professional Teeth Whitening After Braces

Usually, the ideal way to achieve an attractive smile is to wait until you have removed your braces. After removing the brackets, your dental professional can:

  • Check for color inconsistencies

  • Offer professional whitening treatments for uniform results

  • Polish off adhesive residue

Dentists often suggest take-home customized trays or in-office whitening. It is an ideal way of celebrating your newly found smile and making your results shine.

Find an Experienced Dental Professional Near Me

Whitening your teeth while wearing dental braces necessitates effort and commitment. Brushing routinely, flossing daily, utilizing mouthwash, and minding your diet can help you have a whiter smile throughout your orthodontic journey. Most importantly, you should schedule regular dental visits for checkups and professional cleaning. Apart from conducting checkups and professional cleanings, a dentist can advise you on what whitening options suit your needs.

At Northridge Advanced Dentistry, we are ready to serve you and provide expert dental advice. Whether you are wearing dental braces or have just completed treatment, we can assist you in keeping your smile bright and attractive. Visit or call us at 818-701-3010 to learn about the safe whitening options that can work with your braces and meet your specific needs. Schedule your next professional cleaning or consultation today.