Smoker with braces... (I know, I know)

[North2Alaska]

Ok, I don't ever expect my teeth to become superstar white, but I have been dying to have my teeth whitened at least SOME since I've had my braces on.I'm 21 years of age, have a 2 year old, and a husband, and I had my braces put on about 8 months ago. The thing is, I have noticed that my teeth have discolored even more so with the braces on now. I brush my teeth a good 4 times a day, after my 3 meals and after I drink tea. Oh yea, I also smoke about 1/2 a pack a day (and yes, I'm aware that I need to quit, but it seems as though every time I try, my daughter has decided to do something to take my stress to the next level). For the most part, I do not have a poor diet. I don't drink coffee, however, I drink dark red Persian tea every day (grew up with it), but after finishing my drink, I brush my teeth.... I still hate that the stain seems to have become worse. I also have the ceramic brackets, and now I have the elastic band innertwined through ALL my brackets, and that has discolored greatly. I also floss after every brush as well, I even have two dental picks and a water pick that I put saltwater in and clean my mouth 3-4 times a week. So why on earth do my teeth sill seem more discolored now than before I had my brackets??? I'm doing everything I can in my power to make sure I leave nothing in my mouth, oh! Did I mention my tongue and cheek cleaner? I have it all, my sink is sooo crowded with this stuff.

So now the question after my rant, LOL:
Would it be ok for me to use a whitener on my teeth? I dont plan on making them superstar white, but at least a shade or two whiter than now... as they were before I had my braces put on.... I guess the best thing to do would be to ask my orthodontist, but I'm just wondering if anyone else has done it with their braces on, and how effective was it, the pros and cons, etc. Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank you :)