Can I Undergo Teeth Whitening During Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is a discreet orthodontic system that creates straighter smiles using a series of clear aligners. Since the teeth are visible throughout Invisalign treatment (and not hidden behind wires and brackets), it’s common for patients to want to further enhance their smiles with teeth whitening treatment. While it is possible to whiten the teeth during Invisalign, there are some considerations patients should be aware of.
Here, Dr. Danny O’Keefe and Dr. Jan O’Keefe answer patient questions about Invisalign and teeth whitening at their Flowood, MS, practice. To find out if teeth whitening during Invisalign is a good option for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Can the Teeth Be Whitened During Invisalign Treatment?
Yes, in many cases the teeth can be whitened during Invisalign treatment with positive results. Invisalign trays are removable, making it possible to whiten the teeth during treatment.
Although teeth whitening is possible during Invisalign, there are some circumstances where it may be better to delay whitening treatment until after Invisalign is completed.
Considerations Before Undergoing Teeth Whitening
Those with minor alignment issues or who are close to their desired alignment are generally great candidates for teeth whitening during Invisalign. However, some patients will have better results if they wait until after Invisalign is complete. This includes patients with:
Orthodontic Attachments
Sometimes orthodontic attachments are cemented to the teeth to help speed up treatment. Whitening the teeth while these attachments are in place prevents the whitening product from reaching areas of the teeth beneath the attachments. This can result in noticeable spots of discoloration once the attachments are removed. Because of this, patients with orthodontic attachments should wait until the attachments are removed before undergoing teeth whitening.
Crooked or Overlapping Teeth
Whitening crooked teeth, especially when they overlap, can leave areas unexposed to the whitening solution and may result in uneven whitening of the teeth. With this in mind, it’s important not to whiten the teeth too early in the Invisalign process as this can lead to noticeable areas of discoloration once Invisalign is completed.
Teeth Whitening Options
Teeth whitening is a simple yet dramatic way to improve the appearance of the smile. Teeth whitening during Invisalign can enhance the results of Invisalign treatment, especially as the teeth become straighter.
Our Flowood patients who are good candidates for teeth whitening during Invisalign treatment may benefit from the following teeth whitening options:
In-office Whitening
Our Rembrandt® in-office teeth whitening is completed in about one hour using an advanced whitening formula that not only breaks down stains but also fortifies the enamel to help prevent future stains from developing.
At-home Whitening Kits
Rembrandt® at-home whitening kits include whitening gel that is applied to dental trays that are worn for a specified amount every day until the desired results are achieved.
Schedule an Appointment
To find out if teeth whitening during Invisalign treatment is right for you or to discuss other treatment options, contact our Flowood office at (601) 936-2526 to schedule an appointment.
