A perfect smile is often a combination of well-aligned teeth and a bright, white appearance. At Quartz Dental, located at 9 Duchess Walk, London SE1 2SD, we understand that achieving an ideal smile often involves multiple dental treatments. Orthodontics and teeth whitening are two of the most popular procedures that, when combined, can create a stunning smile transformation. Here’s an in-depth look at the best approach for combining orthodontics and whitening to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Orthodontics
In orthodontics, mismatched teeth and bite problems are fixed with braces or clear aligners. This treatment not only improves the appearance of your smile but also enhances oral health by making it easier to clean teeth and reducing the risk of dental problems such as cavities and gum disease.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that lightens the colour of your teeth, removing stains and discoloration. Professional whitening treatments are more effective and longer-lasting compared to over-the-counter options, providing a significantly brighter smile.
Combining orthodontics and whitening requires careful planning to ensure optimal results. Here’s the recommended sequence for these treatments:
1. Orthodontic Treatment First
Starting with orthodontic treatment is generally the best approach. Aligning your teeth before whitening has several benefits:
・Uniform Whitening: Whitening treatments are more effective on evenly aligned teeth, ensuring a consistent colour across your smile.
・Avoid Damage: Whitening agents can cause tooth sensitivity. It's best to avoid this discomfort while you are wearing braces or aligners, which can already cause some level of sensitivity.
・Proper Timing: Orthodontic treatment can take months to years. Completing it first ensures that your teeth are in their final positions before undergoing whitening.
At Quartz Dental, we offer various orthodontic solutions, including traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners, tailored to meet your specific needs.
2. Teeth Whitening After Orthodontics
Once your orthodontic treatment is complete and your teeth are perfectly aligned, you can proceed with teeth whitening. Here’s why this is the ideal time:
・Enhanced Results: Whitening after orthodontics ensures that the entire tooth surface is treated, providing a more uniform and brighter smile.
・Immediate Impact: Post-orthodontic whitening gives an immediate boost to your new smile, enhancing the overall transformation.
・Address Any Discoloration: Orthodontic treatments, especially braces, can sometimes leave behind minor discolorations. Whitening addresses these issues effectively.
At Quartz Dental, we offer several whitening options to suit your preferences and needs:
In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening provides the quickest and most dramatic results. Using professional-grade bleaching agents and advanced technology, we can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one visit. This option is ideal if you want immediate results.
At-Home Whitening Kits
Our custom-made at-home whitening kits offer a convenient and effective way to whiten your teeth. These kits include custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing you to whiten your teeth gradually over a period of weeks.
Combining orthodontics and whitening is just the beginning of maintaining a perfect smile. Here are some tips to keep your smile bright and healthy:
Practise Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash are essential for maintaining both the alignment and whiteness of your teeth. Good oral hygiene prevents the buildup of plaque and stains, keeping your smile looking its best.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular visits to Quartz Dental are crucial for monitoring your oral health and ensuring the longevity of your orthodontic and whitening results. Our team will provide professional cleanings and check-ups to keep your teeth in optimal condition.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
To maintain your white smile, try to limit your consumption of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and certain berries. If you do indulge, minimise discolouration by rinsing your mouth with water afterwards.
Use Whitening Toothpaste
Using a whitening toothpaste can help maintain the brightness of your teeth between professional whitening treatments. These toothpastes assist get rid of surface stains by including whitening ingredients and mild abrasives.
Combining orthodontics and whitening treatments is a highly effective approach to achieving a perfect smile. Starting with orthodontics ensures that your teeth are properly aligned, creating a solid foundation for the whitening process. Completing the whitening treatment after orthodontics maximises the impact, giving you a bright, beautiful smile.
At Quartz Dental, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain the smile of your dreams. Our expert team provides personalised care, ensuring that each treatment is tailored to your unique needs. If you’re considering orthodontics, whitening, or both, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit our website at Quartz Dental, call us at +44 20 3973 9337, or visit us at 9 Duchess Walk, London SE1 2SD, United Kingdom. Our clinic, conveniently located near London Bridge and Tower Bridge, is ready to help you achieve the perfect smile.