Can You Get Teeth Whitening After Braces?

After months of orthodontic treatment, the end has finally come. You’re officially getting your braces taken off! Once your brackets are removed, you take a look in the mirror and admire how straight your teeth are. However, there’s another thing that immediately catches your attention – their discoloration. You might feel disappointed that they’re not pristinely white and glistening, but don’t worry, that can easily be corrected! Here’s what you need to know about teeth whitening after braces.  

Why Do Teeth Yellow with Braces?

Yellow, stained, or discolored teeth after braces are a common issue among orthodontic patients. Luckily, understanding the root causes of a lackluster smile can help you avoid these problems and keep your pearly whites bright. Here’s what causes discoloration:

• Plaque and Tartar – In most cases, stained teeth result from accumulated plaque in the crevices between teeth. If it’s not removed within a day, it can harden into tartar, a crusty deposit that easily stains teeth yellow or brown.
• Poor Oral Hygiene – Proper at-home dental care is crucial to prevent plaque and tartar. You should always rinse and brush after every meal and floss at least twice a day. Maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent discoloration.
• Eating Foods That Stain – If you want to avoid a yellow smile, be sure to watch your diet! Foods like coffee, tea, soda, popsicles, tomato sauce, and even soy cause can stain your teeth.

How Long After Braces Can You Whiten Teeth?

Even though you may want to whiten your teeth immediately after your braces come off, it’s recommended that you wait about six months before pursuing cosmetic treatment. Your teeth might feel sensitive and weak from wearing braces, so they need time to adjust to life without them. Also, saliva may be enough to minimize the intensity of discolored teeth. Give it a few months to work its magic, and you might not need whitening treatment after all!

How to Whiten Teeth After Braces

Are your teeth still discolored after six months? Here are a few ways you can brighten your smile:

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

If you’ve ever been in the oral care aisle at your local pharmacy, chances are you’ve seen the stacks upon stacks of whitening products. Although most of them are deemed safe, make sure you consult with your dentist before using one. It’s worth noting that one primary disadvantage of these options is that they often have lower chemical concentration, meaning it will take longer for your teeth to whiten.

In-Practice Teeth Whitening

It’s always a good idea to seek professional treatment from your dentist. With in-practice whitening, you can achieve dramatically brighter results in just one appointment! Since your dentist uses powerful, safe, and effective products, it’s the best and healthiest solution for your smile.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

Would you rather undergo treatment from the comfort of your home? Your dentist offers take-home whitening kits so you can whiten your teeth at your convenience. As long as you diligently follow treatment instructions, you will see your desired results in no time!

Are your teeth discolored after braces? Ask your dentist about their teeth whitening services. Before you know it, you will be sporting some blinding pearly whites!

About the Practice

At Desert Springs Dental, we go above and beyond to ensure every patient feels like a part of our family. We take the time to listen to your concerns and recommend treatment that best suits your unique needs. If you’re interested in teeth whitening after braces, consult with one of our skilled dentists about treatment. We’ll use the latest dental techniques and technology to give you the white smile you deserve! Visit our website or call (480) 279-3100 to schedule an appointment.