If you want to have a smile that’s as dazzling as possible, it makes sense to combine Invisalign with tooth whitening. Once your teeth are straighter and several shades whiter, you’ll find it much easier to show them off with confidence at work and at social gatherings. But while some patients might think it makes sense to have both treatments done at the same time, it’s generally better to wait to have whitening done after any orthodontic work is complete. Read on to learn why you might need to wait until after finishing Invisalign to brighten your smile – and why teeth whitening should be your method of choice to do so!
Why Should You Wait Until Finishing Invisalign to Whiten Your Teeth?
Since Invisalign is virtually invisible on your teeth and can be removed at any time (as opposed to braces that stand out in your mouth and are fixed in place), you may think you could have whitening done while you’re still wearing your clear aligners. However, it’s important to remember that Invisalign is an orthodontic procedure meant to correct crooked or overcrowded teeth, gaps, and bite alignment issues. Some of your teeth might not be fully exposed yet, and as such there could be several spots where the whitening agent can’t be applied. It’s important for a whitening procedure to work evenly on all your teeth, meaning it’ll be much more effective once you’re done with Invisalign.
As a side benefit, Invisalign could sometimes simplify a take-home whitening treatment. The take-home kits will include custom-fitted trays to hold the whitening agent. Your last set of Invisalign aligners can actually take the place of these trays since they’re already perfectly fitted for your current smile.
Why Should You Use Teeth Whitening After Invisalign?
Once you’re done with your Invisalign treatment, you can start considering different methods of teeth whitening. While you could try over-the-counter products, a professional treatment will carry the following benefits:
- Convenience: Whitening can be completed quickly over the course of a single in-office treatment. If you’re not in a hurry, you can get a take-home kit instead to improve your smile in the comfort of your own home. Pick the treatment that works best for you!
- Speed: The in-office whitening procedure usually lasts anywhere from an hour to 90 minutes, and the take-home kits, while normally used for about two weeks, can start showing results in just a few days.
- Comfortable: Over-the-counter whitening products may irritate the gums, but whitening is a safe procedure overseen by your dentist.
Your cosmetic dentist in East York can help you plan your smile makeover to address all your concerns; if you still have concerns about teeth whitening or another cosmetic procedure after finishing an Invisalign treatment, don’t be afraid to ask.