Braces and Teeth Whitening

Tooth whitening, also known as tooth bleaching, is used to brighten the shade of teeth. Tooth whitening procedures attempt to remove extrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are found on the surface of the enamel layer and can usually be removed by having a professional cleaning. Stains that are not removed will begin to penetrate deeper layers of enamel and tend to be more difficult to remove. It is these persistent stains that may still be removed by teeth whitening procedures.


If you have braces or are thinking of getting braces, you should consider having your teeth whitened after your orthodontic treatment is complete, that is when your braces are removed. This usually results in a more esthetic result.

If whitening is done prior to having your braces placed, it is difficult to distribute the whitening gel evenly on teeth that are crooked resulting in different shades and overall dissatisfaction. If teeth whitening is done when the braces are still on, not only is it difficult to do, but after your braces are removed, you will notice darker areas where the whitening gel could not penetrate your teeth under the braces.

Regardless of what stage you are at with your orthodontic treatment, before you start whitening your teeth, consider speaking with your orthodontist. It is also recommended that you have your dentist check your teeth and gums. Whitening a cavity or exposed root could penetrate deep into your tooth and cause sensitivity. Patients who already have sensitive teeth may also experience increased sensitivity.