Bright, beautiful teeth can do wonders for your smile and confidence, and Invisalign has helped many patients achieve both. Here’s everything you need to know about teeth whitening with Invisalign and how it can help you smile brighter than ever.
Can you use teeth whitening with Invisalign?
Yes, you can! If you have Invisalign and want a whitening, your dentist can tell you which whitening option is best for you and how to use it safely and effectively.
Are there complications with at-home whitening?
Along with causing tooth sensitivity, at-home procedures can turn your teeth different shades of white. This happens when you adjust the appliance to fit crowded or crooked teeth, leaving certain areas of your teeth exposed and unable to be whitened.
If you whiten your teeth at home, consult with your dentist first, because they can help you based on your specific needs. However, if you can, wait to whiten your teeth after your Invisalign treatment.
How long does Invisalign take to work?
If you’re in a hurry for a whitening, you should talk with your dentist about how long the treatment will take. Typically, it’s between 12-18 months, but it can vary depending on severity and age of the patient. But as long as you wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day, you can finish the treatment in as little as 6 months.
With at-home treatments, you can see results in 2-4 weeks. But one of the many reasons to get a professional whitening is that it’s almost always faster than what you can do at home. With the 2-4 week period in mind, you can set up a timeline with your dentist to outline your entire treatment. If you want to see gradual but consistent results during realignment, use whitening toothpaste and an electric toothbrush for a safe and easy process.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual ones?
The short answer is yes! Electric toothbrushes allow for micro-movements, which can remove buildup from your teeth and gums. Electric oscillating (or “rotating”) toothbrushes are even better. These have been proven to reduce plaque and gingivitis by up to 21% as opposed to manual toothbrushes.
Electric toothbrushes are especially effective for those who have orthodontic appliances, because they clean around the appliances better than manual toothbrushes. Moreover, they’re easy to use for children and those with limited mobility.
Yet you also have different kinds of electric toothbrushes to choose from. Not only do some have softer bristles and vibrate at different speeds, but they also come in different sizes to find one that fits your hand. And if you’re a tech wiz, you can even get a smart electric toothbrush, which comes with sensors and apps to track your oral health progress.
Can I still use a manual toothbrush?
Yes, and many still do. Although manual toothbrushes can be just as effective as electric ones, they do require more time and care. It will likely take longer to brush, and you’ll have to adjust the way that you do it. Most people brush with a back-and-forth motion. However, it’s actually best to brush in a small circle. This is gentler on the gums and ensures that you target every area.
Which toothbrush is best for whitening?
Electric toothbrushes are almost always your best option. Combined with a whitening toothpaste, these ensure the whitening solution is evenly distributed while gently cleaning and polishing.
Some electric toothbrushes even come with a timer specifically meant for whitening. The toothbrush vibrates when you’re supposed to move the brush to a different area, which balances excellent oral health and whitening. Using a proper toothbrush can increase the effectiveness of whitening toothpaste and increase your confidence when showing off your smile.
Which whitening toothpaste should I use?
Choosing the right toothpaste depends on your specific dental needs. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, a gentle whitening is key. If you have gingivitis, you might need a toothpaste high in fluoride. Of course, an aggressive whitening toothpaste could be useful if you want quick results. While toothpaste is the best way to maintain a healthy smile, remember that professional teeth whitening offered by your dentist is always the best, and safest route when looking to brighten your smile quickly and effectively. Let our office help kick start your journey to not only straighten your smile but to whiten as well with our Opalescence whitening options.
No matter what your dental goals are, your dentist can provide you with the best possible treatment. It might be tempting to try the newest product, but depending on what you need, “new” might not be best. In the same way that trendy diets aren’t usually helpful in the long term, trendy dental products may not be either.
For more information
If you have Invisalign and want a teeth whitening, know that you have options and that Dean Dental Solutions can help you every step of the way! Contact us today at (501) 271-3730, or submit this form to request an appointment.
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