Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the ceramic brackets that stain, but rather the ligature ties (colored rubber band or archwire) that can turn yellow or discolor over time. Ceramic braces are primarily designed to resist stains and discoloration; however, poor oral hygiene and certain dietary choices, like wine or regular coffee intake, can lead to mild discoloration or staining.
To prevent this from occurring, patients with ceramic braces can make lifestyle changes and maintain oral hygiene to feel confident throughout their orthodontic treatment. Keep reading to learn what causes ceramic braces to stain and how to keep them white.
Things That Cause Ceramic Braces to Stain
There are a few culprits behind your ceramic braces turning yellow, and understanding them can help you avoid walking around with stained ceramic braces.
White ligature ties:
Clear white ligature ties can become discolored over time, especially with poor dietary habits and inconsistent oral hygiene. Choosing colored ligature ties with ceramic braces may help resolve the issue.
Dark beverages:
The most common reason behind why ceramic braces stain is consistent intake of coffee or red wine. Sugary drinks, like soda, can also lead to discoloration over time.
Colored foods:
Candies, cereals, and fruits, including beetroot, blueberries, and strawberries, can stain your braces and teeth. Failure to properly brush after eating also leads to the risk of cavities.
Smoking/Vaping:
The ceramic brackets and ligatures can discolor over time due to the nicotine and tar present in cigarettes and vapes. This staining can be noticeable, especially when you visit your orthodontist for regular adjustments.
Artificially-colored foods:
Foods or candies with color additives can leave stains on your teeth, appearing yellow over time. Proper oral hygiene and brushing can prevent this from occurring.
Tips On How To Keep Ceramic Braces White or Stain-Free
Dietary restrictions and oral upkeep are a part of every orthodontic treatment, including ceramic braces. Here’s what you can do to keep your ceramic braces from turning yellow:
Opt for colored ligature ties:
Go for pearl white or silver ligature ties that blend seamlessly with the archwire without attracting too much attention to your smile.
Avoid dark beverages:
Studies show that drinks, like red wine and coffee, are most likely to cause staining in ceramic braces, especially when consumed regularly.
Avoid smoking or vaping:
Cigarettes contain chemicals that can be readily absorbed by the ligature ties of ceramic braces, eventually causing them to stain or turn black.
Develop good oral practices:
Regularly brushing and flossing after every meal or drink other than water can help your ceramic braces stay white. This also prevents the likelihood of cavities or gum disease during your orthodontic treatment.
Drink from a straw:
Using a straw to drink pigmented beverages, like coffee and wine, can help minimize contact with your teeth, reducing the possibility of them staining.
Exploring Ceramic Braces? Schedule a No-Cost Consultation Today!
With proper care and expert insights, you can keep your ceramic braces from staining throughout the entirety of your smile journey. Schedule a no-cost consultation at your local Orthodontic Experts office to learn more about ceramic braces and the best tips and tricks on how to prevent them from staining.
