Braces can be a long haul, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. The day will finally arrive when those metal brackets and wires will become a thing of the past, leaving behind a set of beautifully aligned teeth. However, there is one problem. Discoloration of the teeth is common, especially where the brackets were affixed to the teeth.
Teeth whitening after braces
No matter how diligent you are with cleaning your teeth, you can still be faced with stained or yellow teeth. When you want to flash your pearly whites again, professional teeth whitening can give you the desired outcome.
Do you get your teeth whitened after braces?
Options for Teeth Whitening
While over-the-counter products are available for teeth whitening, professional, in-office procedures provide the best results. Primarily, health providers use much more powerful products that will produce the desired effect in a shorter period of time. Over-the-counter products involve using abrasive chemicals over an extended length of time and can cause irritation to the mouth. When professional services are provided, the rest of the mouth is protected. In addition, the tooth enamel is protected. In the end, one visit can give you that dazzling smile, rather than a drawn out process that could damage your mouth.
What to Expect during Teeth Whitening
If you opt for in-office teeth whitening, we will create trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth. The trays will be filled with a powerful, bleaching solution or gel. The trays are then applied to your teeth for no more than an hour. In addition to using the bleaching solution, heat or laser light may be applied to make the process go more quickly.
After braces teeth whitening
Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening
The best part about professional teeth whitening is that you will see dramatic results after only one visit. Your teeth could be up to ten shades lighter and any areas that were discolored by your braces will no longer be an issue. You will not need to endure the use of white strips at home that can be inconvenient, especially when they need to be used up to twenty times. You will also be able to protect your gums and the rest of your mouth from irritation, thanks to the supervision of an expert.
Drawbacks of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can cause issues with tooth sensitivity. If you already experience problems with sensitivity, you may need to have more than one session of a shorter length to minimize your discomfort. Toothpaste that is designed to reduce sensitivity can assist you with any pain or thermal sensitivity after a tooth whitening session. You can also have fluoride applied to your teeth. Anti-inflammatory medication may be helpful as well.
Once you have had a teeth whitening procedure, you will need to be diligent with good oral hygiene to maintain white teeth. Whitening toothpastes and mouthwash can also be helpful. Avoiding foods and beverages that can stain your teeth can keep your pearly whites in top form.
If you’re interested in professional teeth whitening, Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics can help. Our team will work with you to determine the most effective treatment plan to get you the bright white smile you want. Contact Runnels Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation.
