For braces wearers, nothing can compare to the satisfaction they feel once their brackets and wires are finally removed. But if your teeth are looking a bit yellower than before? Don’t panic – mild tooth staining is perfectly normal. And with modern whitening treatments, it’s easier to get the spark of your smile back. So, how long should you wait to get teeth whitening after braces? Keep reading to find out!
Why You May Need Teeth Whitening After Braces
The color of your teeth keeps changing as time passes, because your tooth enamel can absorb different stains from foods and drinks. This can also occur if you don’t brush regularly or smoke frequently. As a result, it may appear more dull than before.
For those who wear braces, this can sometimes be even more noticeable, especially once their braces are removed. This is because during your treatment, food bits and plaque often stick to the brackets, making it harder to clean with routine brushing.
Also, the part of your tooth that’s covered with the bracket may appear lighter than the rest when it’s removed, which gives an uneven look.
That’s why many orthodontists suggest teeth whitening after braces to make your smile look more appealing and brighter.
How Long Should You Wait to Get Your Teeth Whitened After Braces?
Once the brackets and wires on your teeth are removed, your teeth will be a little sensitive and weak for some time. For this reason, orthodontists say that it’s better to wait about six months before getting your teeth whitened after braces.
This gives enough time for your teeth and gums to adjust after braces, so the whitening process will be more comfortable later on.
Ways to Whiten Your Teeth After Braces Treatment
Professional Teeth Whitening
One of the safest and most effective ways to whiten your teeth after orthodontic treatment is in-office whitening.
Your dentist or orthodontist uses a special whitening gel in a controlled way to make sure you get that bright smile without any harm to your gums or oral tissues.
At-Home Whitening Kits
Another great way is to get a custom at-home teeth whitening kit from a dentist. You’ll have to place the gel inside the custom tray and wear it on your teeth to whiten them. With custom kits, most people start to see a difference within the first 2 weeks of using them.
Over-the-counter Whitening Products
These may include whitening toothpastes, pens, and strips. As convenient as they may look, many of these products take a long time before you see a change in your tooth color. And they may cause gum irritation or enamel damage, too, if not used properly.
Final Words
So, if your teeth are looking a bit uneven in shade after braces treatment, teeth whitening could be a great option. But it’s best to wait about 6 months so that your teeth have the time to adjust.
Consult our expert orthodontist at Capital Springs Orthodontics to learn what’s best for your smile after braces. Call (512) 447-6453 today to book your appointment!