Why are my teeth discoloured after having braces?

Question

My teeth have gone yellow like a smokers teeth after having braces put in. It's embarrassing, no amount of brushing is helping.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

It is not unusual for discolorations after braces, and sometimes over the counter treatments are enough to satisfy the patient.  However, often a professional level whitening is needed to whiten enamel deep into the teeth.

John McDonald, DMD · Answer

First discuss it with your Orthodontist.

Have him or her check for excess glue around the braces, the glue can absorb stain and make the whole tooth look darker.  If there is excess glue, ask that it be removed.

Ask point blank if your brushing is "excellent".   If there is any hesitation, get some tips from the orthodontist. Often I find patients are working hard to keep their teeth clean but not being effective.  A slight technique change or some other tips can make a big difference.

Certain foods cause more staining than others.  Tea is worse than coffee and mustard and curry can also stain a lot if you consume it regularly.  Red wine is not your friend either.

How you eat or drink can affect amount of staining.  If you tend to swish your coffee or wine before swallowing, that makes things worse.

Brush immediately after eating and swish with water after drinking coffee.  If you are a big coffee "sipper", use a straw to keep the coffee away from your teeth.  Staining is related to the amount of time the staining agent is in contact with the tooth.  Minimize between the meal snacking if you can't brush right away.

Finally, after you figure what the cause is, talk to your orthodontist and dentist an coordinate a cleaning with the wires out so the hygienist/dentist can really do a good polishing/stain removal.  Ask about a disposable at home bleaching system to maybe use overnight before the wires go back in.

Your Orthodontist wants you to be happy with your teeth, both during and after treatment.  Ask for some time to discuss your tooth color concerns at your next appointment and as him or her for their thoughts.

Hisham Kaloti, DDS (retired) · Answer

First congrats on your new smile!

If you have not had a professional cleaning start there. There maybe some residual bonding on the teeth. If you've had a cleaning and they're still yellow consider professional whitening.

In our practice we always offer our patients free whitening after orthodontic treatment to brighten up their smiles.

Worst case scenario if you still have stubborn yellow spots then you might consider composite resins or porcelain veneers

Good luck

Why are my teeth discoloured after having braces?

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Everything you need to know about Braces

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Why are my teeth discoloured after having braces?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.