If you have a radiant smile, it automatically brings along confidence. Invisalign treatment is a great way to align your teeth discreetly. But what if you want to brighten your teeth during your Invisalign treatment journey? Many people wonder if combining teeth whitening along with Invisalign treatment is possible and the answer is, yes, it is. With the right methods and products, it is possible to get a brighter smile while you get your teeth aligned. Read on to know more.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern-day orthodontic treatment that uses clear custom-made trays to gradually straighten your teeth. Traditional braces are not removable and clearly visible but Invisalign trays are removable and not visible. Invisalign is a popular option for people who want to align their teeth in their adulthood or teenage. It is a convenient and aesthetic way to achieve a beautiful smile.
Can You Whiten Your Teeth While Wearing Invisalign?
Yes, you can go for a teeth whitening treatment alongside an Invisalign treatment. Since the Invisalign treatment uses removable trays, it is easy to incorporate whitening treatment into your routine. However, the products that your dentist uses have to be compatible with your aligners so that they don’t reduce the effectiveness or damage them.
Best Whitening Treatments While Wearing Aligners
While you are undergoing an Invisalign treatment, it is very important to go for safe whitening options. Here are the whitening methods you can go for to get that bright smile without damaging the aligners.
- In-Chair Whitening Treatments
Getting your teeth whitened at a dental clinic is the most effective and recommended way to whiten your teeth. They use strong whitening agents which are applied with utmost care to avoid contact with your aligners. The dentist will ask you to remove your aligners for whitening and re-insert them once the process is complete.
- Take-Home Whitening Kits
You can ask your dentist about take-home whitening trays; these trays can be worn in between your aligners for convenience. The professional whitening agent is filled in these trays so when you wear them, they come in contact with your teeth and start working. These kits ensure noticeable results and maintain your oral hygiene.
- Whitening Gel for Invisalign Trays
Some professional-grade whitening gels are formulated to work directly with your Invisalign trays. These gels are applied on the inner surface of your trays, this allows teeth whitening while you are wearing your Invisalign trays. Make sure you consult your dentist before using any whitening gels to make sure it is compatible with your aligners.
- Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwashes
If you want to go for a gentler approach, whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes are a great option. They contain mild whitening agents that help you with whitening over time and also maintain your oral hygiene. Since these products do not interfere with your Invisalign trays, they can be incorporated into your daily routine.
Whitening Options to Avoid with Invisalign Aligners
There are a lot of whitening options in the market, you may find some of these appealing and convenient, but they can damage your teeth and aligners. Here are a few methods you should stay away from.
- Acidic Home Remedies
DIY solutions like lemon and vinegar etc are useless and ineffective. They will not only damage your teeth and aligners but also cause your teeth to lose their natural enamel. This solution can also get stuck in your aligners and cause your teeth to lose more enamel over time.
- Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal seems to be the new trend but it is very abrasive. It can scratch the enamel of your teeth and leave your teeth feeling sensitive and prone to staining. It is also unsuitable to use with aligners.
- Swishing Oils or Spices Around in Your Mouth
Oil-pulling or using ingredients like turmeric are marketed nowadays as a natural and DIY solution and home remedies to whiten your teeth. These remedies have no scientific backing and they can get stuck in your trays causing ineffectiveness and also turning them yellow and visible in a bad way.
Whitening your teeth during your Invisalign treatment is not only possible but can be done simply and effectively if you use the right techniques. Maintaining your oral hygiene is crucial whether you use home techniques or visit a dentist. You can visit your orthodontist and consult them regarding the best technique to whiten your teeth, that complements your aligners as well.
You must completely avoid the home DIY remedies to avoid damage. Your smile is worth the investment, and with Invisalign, it is now possible to get that dreamy smile.
