Teeth Whitening After Braces: How to Get the Best Results
After months or even years of wearing braces, the thought of having a perfect, straight smile is finally a reality. However, for many people, the journey doesn’t end there.
Braces can leave teeth looking slightly yellow or stained, and many people want to know how to get the best results when it comes to whitening their teeth after braces.
In this article, we’ll explore the best options for whitening teeth after braces, as well as tips and tricks for getting the best results. Whether you’re looking to achieve a brighter smile or simply want to restore the natural whiteness of your teeth, we’ve got you covered.
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Teeth Whitening After Braces: Things to Consider
Braces make it challenging to effectively clean the teeth. After getting braces removed, it’s common to have your teeth appear slightly yellow or stained due to the accumulation of plaque and debris during treatment. Because it’s more challenging to maintain proper oral hygiene with braces, you are also more at risk of cavities.
It’s best to see your dental hygienist for a dental cleaning after the braces are removed. Your dental hygienist will skillfully remove any hardened plaque (calculus), leftover bracket glue, and any stubborn stain. You will also receive cavity-checking x-rays to ensure your teeth are in good health before receiving teeth whitening after braces.
White Spots After Braces
Around 25% of patients will get white spots on their teeth after braces. This is called demineralization and it is due to poor oral hygiene. Leaving food and plaque around the brackets promotes bacteria to produce acid causing weak spots in the enamel. The weak spots are the chalky white marks that scar the teeth.
When whitening, there is a chance for these areas to also brighten and stand out more. Consult your dentist before considering teeth whitening after braces if you have any demineralization.
For more information, check out our Avoiding White Spots After Braces article.
How Long Should You Wait to Whiten Your Teeth After Braces?
Teeth whitening after braces is a great dental treatment to look forward to. It will help brighten your teeth and make your straight teeth stand out. Should you wait to participate in teeth whitening after braces?
It’s generally a good idea to wait a few weeks before using teeth whitening after braces. It’s important to let the gums heal. When inflamed, swollen gums heal, they will expose more of the tooth’s surface. It’s important for the whitening gel to evenly coat the teeth.
The teeth may also be sensitive after the brackets are removed and you start wearing a retainer. Starting teeth whitening after braces may increase sensitivity and discomfort if done right away. Check out our Helping Sensitive Teeth After Whitening for more information.
Teeth Whitening After Braces: How to Get the Best Results
Going through orthodontic treatment is a commitment and takes work to keep your smile healthy. Teeth whitening after braces is a great way to reward yourself and boost the appearance of your smile. To get the most out of teeth whitening after braces, check out our tips below to get the best results.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: It’s important to brush your teeth 2 times a day and floss daily. This will help keep your smile white and prevent any future stains from building up.
- Use Sensitive Products If Needed: Your teeth may be more sensitive after getting braces removed, so it’s best to use a teeth whitening product that is designed for sensitive teeth. You can even use sensitive toothpaste before whitening if needed.
- Always Follow the Instructions: Be sure to read and follow the instructions that are on the teeth whitening package. This will ensure you’re teeth stay protected and you do not over-whiten leading to damaged enamel.
- Avoid Future Stains: Teeth whitening is temporary due to the coloring in many foods and beverages. Try to minimize these stains by drinking colored beverages through a straw.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening systems will only brighten your smile so much. Your dentist will be able to provide professional strength whitening treatments that may last longer. For more information, check out our Tips for Whitening Your Teeth article.
Teeth Whitening After Braces
Teeth whitening after braces is a great way to show off your improved smile, but only if your teeth are healthy. It’s important to have healthy gums and strong enamel to truly benefit from teeth whitening.
When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult with your orthodontist or dentist before whitening your teeth after getting braces removed. They will be able to assess your individual situation and advise on the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do teeth turn yellow after braces?
Your teeth may appear more yellow or even certain shades of brown while having braces on. This is because it’s harder to clean your teeth efficiently with brackets and wires on them. Stains can easily build up around the braces making the teeth appear more discolored.
How long does it take for teeth to whiten after braces?
Everyone’s teeth are unique and accept teeth whitening at different rates. The best thing to do before starting teeth whitening after braces is to see your dental hygienist for a thorough dental cleaning. That will help your teeth whiten faster.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. All products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
