The demand for orthodontic treatment in the UK has risen exponentially over the years. According to a 2023 survey by the British Orthodontic Society, over 76% of the surveyed dentists reported an increase in demand for adult orthodontics. A common problem braces wearers often face is the staining of their teeth during teeth straightening treatment. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment and are wondering whether you can have teeth whitening and orthodontics at the same time, then this blog is for you.
Read the entire blog to learn about the possibility of getting your teeth whitened during orthodontic treatment, and how to keep your teeth sparkling white while you wear braces.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a procedure in which your dentist will use a potent yet safe bleaching agent to remove surface stains and discolouration from your teeth. The British Dental Association states that professional teeth whitening by a dentist is the only way to achieve excellent aesthetic results while protecting your teeth and gums.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
During professional teeth whitening, your dentist will use a potent bleaching agent. The bleaching agent, which is typically carbamide peroxide, breaks down into hydrogen peroxide when activated using special light. Once activated, it chemically dissolves the stains on the back and front surfaces of teeth. This leaves behind a fresh, pearly white tooth surface.
What is the Process of Teeth Whitening?
The process of getting your teeth professionally whitened involves the following steps:
- Initial Oral Health Consultation – During your first appointment, we will carefully examine your teeth to identify the cause of tooth staining. We will also evaluate whether professional teeth whitening is the best option for removing your teeth stains.
- Fabricating A Custom Whitening Tray – next, we will make impressions of your teeth and send them to the laboratory to fabricate customised whitening trays for you. These custom-made trays help maximise the aesthetic outcome while preserving your oral soft tissues from damage.
- Teeth Whitening – at the next appointment, we will perform the teeth whitening procedure. Before starting the procedure, we will apply a protective agent, such as cocoa butter or vaseline, to your teeth. Your dentist will do this to prevent harm to your gums or cheeks during whitening.
During the process, we will ask you to wear your whitening trays containing the whitening gel for about thirty minutes. We will activate the bleaching agent using a special light. As soon as the bleaching agent is activated, it will dissolve the stains and significantly improve the shade of your teeth.
Sometimes, we may also prescribe our patients with at-home teeth whitening for enhanced results. We will provide them with custom whitening trays and a specially formulated bleaching formula for use at home. This at-home, dentist-supervised whitening formula is considerably more effective than whitening toothpastes, whitening pens, or other over-the-counter whitening methods.
Should You Whiten Your Teeth While Wearing Braces?
Dentists generally recommend waiting till the end of your orthodontic treatment for professional teeth whitening. This is because the whitening gel is unable to reach the enamel surface below the orthodontic brackets, leading to uneven whitening. So, it is better to wait till the end of your braces or clear aligner treatment before seeking professional teeth whitening.
Will Teeth Whitening Damage My Teeth While Wearing Braces?
It is generally not recommended to have one’s teeth whitened while wearing braces. In addition to causing uneven teeth whitening, bleaching during orthodontic treatment can also cause tooth sensitivity. Moreover, some whitening products may damage the orthodontic brackets.
Teeth Whitening Options With Braces
As mentioned earlier, having your teeth whitened during orthodontic treatment is not recommended. One should wait til their braces are removed to undergo this procedure. Once your treatment is complete, you can choose from several professional teeth whitening options to restore your smile and facial aesthetics.
Is At-Home Teeth Whitening Safe During Orthodontic Treatment?
Teeth whitening is generally safe when performed by a licensed and authorised professional. However, teeth whitening is not recommended when one is undergoing orthodontic treatment. So, regardless of the whitening method used, one should avoid having their teeth whitened while they are getting their teeth straightened with braces or clear aligners.
Are Teeth Whitening Strips Effective With Braces?
It is not a good idea to use whitening strips during orthodontic treatment. This is because you cannot ensure uniform teeth whitening with braces. So, it is best to wait till the completion of your treatment to undergo whitening of your teeth.
How Long After Orthodontic Treatment Can I Get Teeth Whitening?
Most dental professionals recommend waiting for 4 -6 months after having their braces removed before seeking teeth whitening. This waiting period helps the teeth to remineralise and the gums to heal, thereby minimising the risk of post-whitening sensitivity. Your dentist will recommend a suitable waiting period after performing a detailed post-orthodontic treatment checkup.
What Is The Best Way To Keep My Teeth Sparkling White While Wearing Braces?
The most effective way to keep your teeth sparkling white while wearing braces is to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Why? In most cases, the main cause of tooth staining during orthodontic treatment is poor oral hygiene. So by brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for checkups, you can significantly minimise the risk of tooth staining while wearing Invisalign aligners or traditional braces.
If you’ve just had your braces removed and are looking for a reliable dentist for teeth whitening in Middlesbrough, your best option is to visit Cleveland Orthodontics. We provide specialised oral hygiene care services for our patients who have just completed treatment with braces, including high-quality teeth whitening. Contact us today for a consultation and let us give you a healthy, bright smile.
