There are few things that are more exciting than getting braces off. When you (or your son or daughter) look in the mirror for that first time, there will probably be a small moment of shock – those teeth will look a lot different without braces on top of them! The tooth enamel may have even yellowed over the past months and years. To really perfect your overall appearance, you may want to consider teeth whitening after braces. Keep reading to learn about your options and the benefits of this treatment!
Why You May Need Whitening With Braces
Braces or clear aligners do not always but can sometimes result in discoloration or yellowing of the teeth. It’s not the braces themselves that cause teeth to appear lackluster, but some factors related to dental hygiene that can contribute to the change. They include:
- Difficulty properly brushing and flossing the teeth around the hardware, which leads to plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky substance that turns to hard, yellow tartar if not removed in 24 hours.
- Certain foods that you eat or drink which contribute to staining – like soda and other dark beverages.
- Shifting teeth may create uneven tones. Areas that were hidden before may reveal themselves more yellow or darker than the teeth surrounding them.
Teeth Whitening Options
You have two options when it comes to teeth whitening: in-office or take home. An in-office treatment can reveal teeth that are up to eight shades brighter in just one dental appointment. This is a great choice for people who wish to reveal their results as quickly as possible. Take-home whitening is better for people who have more time and wish to whiten gradually. Dental trays will be created for your specific smile, and you will be instructed to fill them with a powerful whitening gel and wear them for around 20 minutes nightly before you go to bed. After about 2 weeks, your teeth will be dramatically whiter.
Who Is A Good Candidate?
If you are interested in getting your teeth whitened after braces (or if you are researching for your child), the good news is that most people are good candidates for this service. It only requires healthy teeth and gums, and teenagers are eligible as well as adults.
Now that you know more about the benefits of whitening after your orthodontic treatment is complete, don’t wait to talk to your orthodontist about this treatment! It may be just the thing to take your smile from beautiful to breathtaking.
Meet the Orthodontist
Dr. James A. Hart of Hart Orthodontics is Cleburne’s trusted source for perfect smiles. A Regent of the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation, Dr. Hart is highly experienced and continues to stay up-to-date on the latest advances in the field. If you are interested in helping your smile sparkle after getting your braces off, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Hart at (817) 645-2432.