Will I need teeth whitening sessions for white spots after wearing braces? I don’t have an orthodontist yet, but I will get braces this year. I am 28 years old, so it’s a little late for me, but now is the time that I can afford braces. Sometimes I think that the way my teeth look is holding me back from receiving job promotions. I have seen both teens and adults go through years of braces only to end up with straight teeth with white spots. How long will I need teeth whitening for braces? I want to plan and budget for it. Thanks. Gavin
Hi, Gavin,
Thank you for contacting Dr. Perry’s office in Baton Rouge. We understand your concerns about white spots on your teeth after braces. We will explain why they occur and whether teeth whitening will help.
Will Teeth Whitening Help White Spots from Braces?
Depending on how white spots on your teeth compare to your natural tooth color, teeth whitening can make the spots more noticeable. Although bleaching gel can whiten your natural teeth, the white spots on our braces are from the decalcification of your teeth. If you want your natural teeth whitened anyway, your dentist will create a treatment plan.
What Is the Treatment for White Spots After Braces?
Dental bonding is often the treatment for white spots after braces. Plaque buildup behind braces can leave discoloration on your teeth.
Consider the facts:
- Plaque buildup robs teeth of calcium
- Decalcification leaves white spots
- Dental bonding can conceal the imperfections in your teeth.
How Can You Prevent White Spots After Braces?
You can prevent white spots on your teeth after braces with a routine of oral hygiene and professional dental cleaning from a hygienist.
Take these preventive measures:
- Floss daily and brush twice daily.
- Clean around the brackets to remove food debris.
- Keep your dental appointments for exams and cleansings.
- Avoid these foods, as recommended by the American Dental Association in an article on how braces can improve your oral health:
- Hard candy
- Ice
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Sticky foods, such as chewing gum or chewy candy
Best wishes, Gavin, for your orthodontic treatment.
Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible