Yes, dentists often offer teeth whitening after braces. This is because the areas on the teeth at which the brackets and wires were bonded can show discoloration after removal. It is, however, essential to keep specific considerations and potential risks in mind when considering teeth whitening after braces removal:
- Sensitivity. Teeth can temporarily become more sensitive after braces. Whitening products can exacerbate this sensitivity.
- Uneven whitening. If teeth are not cleaned properly during orthodontic treatment, there may be uneven coloration post-brace removal. This can result in inconsistent post-orthodontic whitening results.
- Enamel damage. Whitening products contain chemicals that, if misused, can damage tooth enamel. Combined with the fact that orthodontic treatment may weaken enamel in some areas, teeth whitening after braces can increase the risk of damage.
- Timing. Your dentist may recommend waiting a few weeks after removing your braces before starting teeth whitening treatment. This allows the teeth to stabilize and minor enamel damage to heal.
Before beginning any teeth whitening treatment after braces, it's essential to consult with a dentist to assess your oral health, discuss potential risks, and determine the most appropriate approach to post-orthodontic whitening.
Post-Orthodontic Teeth Whitening in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, CO
If you’re in the Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines areas and looking for a skilled dental care team to help safely restore the radiance of your smile after braces via ICON®, prescribed teeth whitening, or other post-orthodontic whitening methods, contact Dr. Jon Sierk and the caring and knowledgeable teams at both Sierk Children’s Dentistry locations to schedule a consultation!