Is It Okay to Get Teeth Whitening After Braces?

Congratulations on successfully completing your braces journey! Although braces can straighten your teeth, you might notice some discoloration once they are removed. This discoloration can occur due to plaque buildup or enamel demineralization during orthodontic treatment. The good news is that there are several teeth whitening options that can help restore your teeth’s natural color and enhance the appearance of your smile. Let’s explore the process of whitening your smile after braces.

How Long Should I Wait for Teeth Whitening After My Braces Come Off?

After the removal of braces, it is normal to experience tooth sensitivity or weakness. To prioritize oral health, orthodontists generally recommend waiting for about six months before considering teeth whitening. This waiting period allows the teeth to regain strength and adapt to the post-braces phase, ensuring a comfortable and successful teeth whitening process.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that saliva naturally helps reduce the intensity of tooth discoloration over time. Taking a patient approach and allowing for some time before considering teeth whitening treatment can be a prudent decision, as it allows the natural mechanisms of saliva to work in minimizing discoloration.

3 Types of Teeth Whitening

If you’re considering brightening your smile after completing orthodontic treatment, you might be contemplating which whitening option to choose. There are various methods available for whitening your teeth, including:

• Store-bought whiteners – Supermarkets and pharmacies offer numerous teeth whitening products, but these over-the-counter options often disappoint. Due to FDA regulations, they contain minimal whitening agents, rendering them ineffective for most stains. Additionally, their application methods are inefficient and may potentially harm the gums if the whitening gel comes into contact with them.
• Professional teeth whitening – Take-home whitening involves your dental team creating custom whitening trays based on precise impressions of your teeth. These trays are designed to fit your teeth perfectly. You will be provided with whitening gel that is formulated to effectively remove stains without causing dental sensitivity. Your dental team will guide you through the application process and provide instructions on the recommended duration for wearing the whitening gel.

In conclusion, restoring the natural color of your teeth after braces is an exciting step towards achieving a radiant smile. By following the advice of your orthodontist and allowing some time for your teeth to regain strength, you can embark on the teeth whitening journey with confidence!

About the Practice

At Chester County Dental Arts, a team of experienced professionals including Dr. Mark Simeone, Dr. Ronni Bruck, and Dr. Sara Raja, is dedicated to providing top-quality dental care to patients in Thorndale and nearby communities. Their comprehensive range of treatments ensures that smiles remain healthy and radiant. From routine checkups and cleanings to advanced teeth whitening procedures, they prioritize both oral health and aesthetic goals. In addition, they offer orthodontic solutions, such as braces, to help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile. To learn more about their orthodontic treatments and teeth whitening options or to schedule an appointment, call (610) 383-1600 or visit their website.