Teeth Whitening after Braces in Castle Pines

Plaque buildup and demineralization during orthodontic treatment using traditional metal braces can result in white spots and discoloration on teeth. The most effective way to address this issue is through remineralization, which involves replenishing lost minerals to restore the strength and appearance of tooth enamel. This can be achieved through:

• Good oral hygiene. Especially vital for oral hygiene for pre-teens with orthodontics, brush your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
• Fluoride treatment. Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments or a prescription fluoride toothpaste to help remineralize enamel.
• Calcium and phosphate supplements. Calcium and phosphate supplements can promote remineralization and healthier enamel.
• Microabrasion. When white spots are more severe or persistent, microabrasion procedures to remove the outer layer of enamel can improve smile aesthetics.
• ICON. A minimally invasive dental treatment, ICON addresses white spots on teeth, often caused by early tooth decay or enamel demineralization. It uses resin infiltration to fill and strengthen weakened enamel, improving the appearance and preventing further decay. ICON is an alternative to traditional drilling and filling, preserving more natural tooth structure. 

Considerations and Risks

Consistent oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups are crucial to managing white spots. It's also essential to consult with a dentist before starting any remineralization or post-orthodontic whitening treatment to ensure suitability to your needs and prevent the overuse of whitening agents or harsh abrasives that can exacerbate enamel damage.

Ensuring Safe 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 practice team to help you safely and effectively restore the brilliance of your smile after braces, whether through ICON® teeth treatment or our other post-orthodontic whitening methods, contact Dr. Jon Sierk and the friendly and helpful team at either of Sierk Children’s Dentistry locations to schedule a consultation!

It's generally recommended that patients wait a few weeks to begin teeth whitening after braces. This waiting period allows for any enamel demineralization that may have occurred during orthodontic treatment to heal; the extent of such demineralization can often be related to the consistency of oral hygiene for pre-teens with orthodontics during their treatment. Additionally, this time allows teeth to stabilize after the removal of the brackets and wires.

Whitening too soon after braces removal can pose risks:

• Sensitivity. Teeth may become more sensitive after braces. This sensitivity can be exacerbated if an individual is too quick to begin teeth whitening after braces.
• Uneven coloration. Orthodontic brackets and wires can leave discoloration on the teeth. Premature post-orthodontic whitening can result in uneven whitening, with some areas appearing brighter than others.
• Enamel damage. The brackets used in traditional braces can damage tooth enamel and leave teeth more susceptible to damage immediately after removal. The chemicals in teeth whitening agents can exacerbate this enamel damage if used incorrectly or too soon after braces.

It's essential to consult with a dentist before teeth whitening after braces to determine the most appropriate timetable and post-orthodontic whitening method to maximize both your results and your long-term dental health. By waiting a few weeks and consulting with a dentist, you can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening after braces!

Safe 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 practice team to help you safely and effectively restore the brilliance of your smile after braces, whether through ICON® teeth whitening or our other post-orthodontic whitening methods, contact Dr. Jon Sierk and the friendly and helpful team at either of Sierk Children’s Dentistry's locations to schedule a consultation!