Orthodontic treatment with braces often takes several months — in some cases, it can last a few years! Throughout that time, you may have eagerly anticipated your new smile. However, after the removal of your braces, you might notice that your teeth appear slightly yellowed or display uneven coloration. That can be disappointing, and you might be eager to brighten your smile via a teeth whitening treatment. But is it safe to do so right away? This blog post explains what you should know.
Reasons to Delay Teeth Whitening
Although you may wish to brighten your smile ASAP, dental professionals typically recommend waiting about six months post-braces removal. There are two big reasons for this:
- Braces use consistent pressure to guide teeth into proper alignment, which may leave your teeth more sensitive once the braces are removed. Immediate whitening can intensify this sensitivity and cause discomfort.
- Discoloration that appears after braces are taken off frequently fades over time. Saliva and a diligent oral hygiene routine can greatly improve the color and evenness of your teeth. Once that happens, you will be in a better position to make a wise decision about teeth whitening.
Guidelines for Safe and Comfortable Whitening
After you have completed the recommended waiting period, you can choose to whiten your teeth. Teeth whitening can be a safe, effective, and exciting way to enhance your smile! Here are some guidelines to help you enjoy the best possible experience:
- Visit your dentist before beginning any whitening regimen. A thorough dental examination will reveal any cavities or other dental concerns that might need attention before cosmetic treatments.
- Professional whitening treatments generally offer more effective and lasting results than over-the-counter products. Dentists can adapt the procedure to accommodate lingering tooth sensitivity or gum tenderness.
- Exercise caution with popular whitening trends, including the use of charcoal products. Such methods can be abrasive, potentially wearing down tooth enamel, especially for individuals with newly exposed teeth after orthodontic treatment. Select only dentist-approved whitening products to protect your dental health.
Teeth whitening may help you get even greater enjoyment out of your post-braces smile! Exercise proper caution so your desire for a brighter grin does not cause unpleasant side effects.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group has proudly served patients for decades. We are pleased to provide both orthodontic and teeth whitening services. If you are interested in addressing dental discoloration or wish to achieve straighter teeth, our team would be delighted to answer your questions. Contact our Branford office at 203-439-6895 to learn more.