Teeth whitening methods for people with braces: 6 ways

If you wear braces, you might be wondering how to whiten your teeth. After all, many whitening methods appear to be tailored to those who don't wear braces, so it can be a little confusing to know where to begin. In this article, we reveal six different ways that you can whiten your teeth if you wear braces and explain the different types of braces each method is best suited to.

Can braces stain your teeth?

In the same way as specific foods and drinks, braces can also stain your teeth. You also have the added fact that you are likely to continue eating and drinking things that can add stains to your teeth, meaning that whitening has probably crossed your mind.

The good news is that there are a few ways to whiten your teeth when you have braces, and we run through each of them below.

How to whiten teeth with braces?

The type of whitening method you use will depend on the braces that you have in your mouth. For instance, you can't use whitening strips if you have traditional metal braces, but if you use Invisalign or removable aligners, they can be a good option.

The table below is a handy overview of the different whitening methods that are suitable for each brace type to give you an idea of how to whiten your teeth:

Let's take a closer look at these whitening methods for braces in a little more detail.

Electric toothbrush

Suitable for all brace types

The number one method for whitening your teeth and keeping them healthy when you have braces is to use an electric toothbrush, such as the Laifen Wave. An electric toothbrush is ideal for getting to plaque, stubborn bacteria, and food debris that can get stuck between your braces. The oscillations are powerful and help to remove stains from your teeth, too, without damaging your braces.

Whitening toothpaste

Suitable for all brace types

You can combine the use of an electric toothbrush with a whitening toothpaste. There are lots of brands on the market to choose from, but you should look for a paste that contains hydrogen peroxide. This is the main whitening agent in most teeth whitening products and achieves the best results when used consistently over a period of months.

Whitening mouthwash

Suitable for all brace types

For added whitening, you can also opt for a whitening antibacterial mouthwash. Again, look for hydrogen peroxide in the ingredients and use the mouthwash 2-3 times per day after brushing and flossing your teeth.

Whitening strips

Suitable for removable aligners & Invisalign

Unfortunately, you can't use whitening strips if you wear traditional braces and they are only suitable for people with removable aligners or Invisalign, which can also be removed.

To use strips, follow the instructions and apply them to your teeth once or twice a day, for periods of up to 45 minutes at a time. You can buy whitening strips over the counter at most pharmacies or online without a prescription.

Whitening trays

Suitable for removable aligners & Invisalign

Similarly to strips, whitening trays aren't a good option for anyone with traditional metal or ceramic braces.

To use these trays, apply a small amount of gel to the base of the tray and add the tray to your gum for a period between 30 and 60 minutes. You need to do this every day for a period of up to 3 weeks to see the desired results.

Professional whitening

Suitable for removable aligners & Invisalign

Undoubtedly the best way to whiten your teeth is to get them professionally worked on by a dentist. Though this is the most expensive option, it achieves the best results.

There are also laser whitening treatments that remove even the most stubborn stains, but expect to pay upwards of $500 for treatment from a professional dentist. Also, a dentist will only usually offer teeth whitening to people with removable aligners, not permanent braces.

How to keep teeth white with braces - tips

As well as the teeth whitening methods above, here are some tips to keep your teeth as white as possible while wearing braces:

1. Avoid excessive amounts of tea and coffee, as both contain tannins which stain your teeth.

2. Try and limit your sugar intake when you have braces, as sugar is really bad for your teeth in general and can contribute to staining.

3. Vaping and smoking are also bad for the color of your teeth and should be avoided when you have a brace.

4. Make sure you thoroughly brush your teeth 2-3 times per day and use a whitening mouthwash and toothpaste for the best results.

5. Schedule regular appointments (2-3 times per year) with a dental hygienist for advice and tips on how to look after your teeth.

Conclusion

The good news is that there are numerous ways to whiten your teeth if you wear braces, but the method you choose will depend on the type of braces that you have.

Regardless of your brace type, using an electric toothbrush and a whitening paste and mouthwash can have good results, and if you have removable aligners, whitening strips and trays are also an option.

FAQ

Q1: How to make your teeth whiter with braces overnight?

Wondering how to get white teeth with braces fast? Unfortunately, most whitening methods take at least 3 weeks to show results, so patience is required!

Q2: How to whiten your teeth with braces - home remedies?

The best home remedy is to upgrade to an electric toothbrush. Then, use a whitening paste and mouthwash that contain hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth as you brush them daily.

Q3: How to make your teeth whiter with braces the best way?

The very best option is to visit the dentist for professional whitening. However, this method is also the most expensive, costing upwards of $500.