Redheaded girl smiles with her braces outside in Houston, TX

Tips to Prevent White Spots After Braces

November 30, 2021 1:06 am

Nearly as soon as patients get their braces on, they are excited for the time when they will come off! We understand it’s easy to look forward to having a new-and-improved smile after your orthodontic treatment is complete. Until then, however, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking all the necessary steps when the braces are still on to keep your teeth clean and healthy. Doing so will make sure the surface of your teeth look uniform once your braces come off.

It’s possible for white spots to form on teeth if you don’t maintain good oral hygiene with your braces. Here’s what you need to know about what they are and how to prevent them!

What Causes White Spots on Teeth?

The white spots that can form around the brackets and wire of braces are a result of demineralization. This is when plaque buildup produces toxic substances that remove minerals from the surface of your teeth. These spots are also formally referred to as “white spots lesions.” Once your braces come off, it will become even more noticeable if you have these areas of discoloration around where your brackets used to be.

How to Prevent White Spots on Teeth

The best way to prevent these white spots from forming is to practice great dental hygiene! On a basic level, that means brushing twice every day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once a day. It also means carefully using the proper technique. Helpful tools like a floss threader, an electric toothbrush, and a water flosser will make cleaning around your braces hardware much easier. Additionally, it is critical to consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and regularly visit the dentist for teeth cleanings!

If you need help keeping your teeth clean and spot-free while wearing braces, don’t hesitate to ask our team at The Smile Club Dentistry and Orthodontics for oral healthcare tips. We’d love to give you technique and product recommendations to ensure that your smile stays shining bright throughout and after your braces treatment! Contact us today to set up a visit to our Houston dental office.

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