Are you thinking about getting braces, or already have braces? If so, we at Bracesetters Orthodontics in Monroe, NY warn that teeth whitening should be done only AFTER braces are removed. Here’s why: whitening teeth before braces while the teeth are crooked will make it difficult to distribute the whitening gel evenly on the teeth, and whitening teeth while wearing braces is not only difficult to do, it can also cause “brace tan lines” after Dr. Michael Skrobola or Dr. Johnathan Schlosser removes your braces.

Moreover, did you know that certain foods whiten your smile? If you find that the part of your teeth not covered by your braces isn’t as white as you’d like them to be Dr. Michael Skrobola and Dr. Johnathan Schlosserrecommend eating your way to a whiter smile! Over time, eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can help keep your teeth white in which they trigger your mouth to make saliva which washes away food particles so they can’t stain teeth. For example, strawberries have an enzyme that acts like natural bleach, and broccoli has minerals that form a film on teeth so pigments from other foods won’t stain them.

Post-Braces

When Dr. Michael Skrobola or Dr. Johnathan Schlosser removes your braces he will use pliers to remove all the brackets and thoroughly CLEAN your teeth. You will feel a little pressure when the braces are being removed, but no pain. Noteworthy, the newly exposed enamel and your gums will be sensitive at first so Dr. Michael Skrobola and Dr. Johnathan Schlosser recommend sticking to your braces-friendly diet for a little while longer.

If you have any questions or concerns about your braces or your oral hygiene please contact Dr. Michael Skrobola or Dr. Johnathan Schlosser at 845.783.1344, or stop by Bracesetters Orthodontics when and if you are in the Monroe, NY area. Keep smiling!