ProviderLet Your New Smile Shine
Your braces are off, and your smile is straighter and healthier than ever. The end of orthodontic treatment is a great time to consider teeth whitening to complete your beautiful new smile.
Uneven coloration of the teeth is common in teens and adults after braces are removed. This happens because, during treatment with braces, parts of your teeth are covered by brackets for months or, in some cases, years. This can result in uneven staining of the exposed parts of your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening from your Meridian and Laurel orthodontist can help even out this uneven coloration, and brighten the appearance of your teeth – adding polish to that straight new smile.
Flexible Payment Plans & Financing Options
At Douglas Orthodontics, we believe that finances should never be a barrier to essential health care. To help our patients manage the cost of orthodontic treatment, we offer flexible payment plans and convenient financing with CareCredit.
Post-Treatment Teeth Whitening Options
Douglas Orthodontics offers in-office treatments and at-home teeth whitening kits.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our Meridian and Laurel orthodontic clinics, we offer bleaching treatments that can safely and efficiently whiten your teeth in one visit to our office.
During the in-office teeth whitening process, we place a barrier around your gums to protect them, and then a thin layer of whitening gel is applied to each tooth. The gel will be left on your teeth for a predetermined period of time and then gently rinsed away.
]After your teeth whitening treatment, stains and discoloration will be minimized and teeth will appear whiter and brighter.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
You can also achieve a whiter smile in the comfort of your own home. If you choose our take-home whitening option, we make impressions of your mouth and create a set of custom whitening trays perfectly fitted to your new smile.
At home, you'll simply apply whitening gel to these trays and wear them according to your orthodontist's instructions.
Each application takes you one step closer to the brighter smile you are looking for. Once your teeth have reached your desired shade of white, you're all done!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Considering whitening your smile but still have questions? Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening after orthodontic treatment.
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Can I get my teeth whitened right away after my braces come off?
Our orthodontist recommends waiting a few weeks after having your braces removed before whitening your teeth. This will give you time to adjust and get comfortable with the feeling of your new appliance-free smile.
During this period you will also be able to pay extra attention to your oral hygiene routine, helping to reduce any plaque buildup that may have accumulated. This will help to give you optimal results from your whitening treatments.
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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
Whitening is not permanent. A variety of foods and beverages, such as cola, coffee, tea, and foods that contain turmeric, can cause staining. How long the effects of your whitening treatment will last depends on your diet, oral hygiene practices, and other factors.
Maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine will go a long way in helping your smile stay bright and healthy looking. Many people choose to have a whitening treatment once a year as a touch-up.
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Will my insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Unfortunately, most dental insurance policies will not cover the cost of teeth whitening.
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Will teeth whitening make my teeth more sensitive?
Increased sensitivity can be a short-term side effect following teeth whitening. Sensitivity generally fades away within a few days following a whitening treatment.
Using anti-sensitivity toothpaste when brushing for a couple of weeks before treatment can help to minimize discomfort.
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Does teeth whitening work on all stains?
Brown and yellow stains typically respond best to teeth whitening treatments. However, there are some stains that do not respond to whitening treatments at all.
Speak to your orthodontist to find out if teeth whitening could be right for you.
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Does teeth whitening work on dental restorations?
No. Teeth whitening is only effective on natural teeth and will not whiten existing dental restorations such as dental fillings, bonding, crowns, or veneers. If crowns or veneers are part of your treatment plan, speak to your orthodontist to determine the best way to achieve the results you are after.
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Will teeth whitening damage my tooth enamel?
When used under the supervision of a qualified dental professional, teeth whitening is unlikely to damage tooth enamel. Consult your orthodontist to ensure you are using whitening products safely. If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort, let your orthodontist know right away.