Invisalign has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces for those looking to straighten their teeth. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, convenient, and comfortable. But can these plastic trays also whiten your teeth while straightening them? Keep reading to find out.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Before exploring if Invisalign can whiten your teeth, it’s important to understand what Invisalign aligners are and what they do.
- Invisalign consists of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth and incrementally move them into place over time.
- You switch to a new set of aligners around every 1-2 weeks.
- Each new set shifts your teeth little by little until you achieve the desired position.
- Invisalign aligners exert gentle pressure on teeth to guide them into proper alignment.
Benefits of Invisalign:
- Clear and discreet
- Removable for eating, brushing, flossing
- More comfortable than braces
- Shorter treatment time than traditional braces
- Less impact on speech and chewing function
Can Invisalign Whiten Your Teeth?
Now onto the main question at hand – is tooth whitening a capability of Invisalign?
The short answer is yes, Invisalign can lead to whiter teeth for some patients. However, it does not contain any actual whitening or bleaching agents like professional or at-home whitening treatments do.
Rather, Invisalign:
- Helps remove stains from the surface of teeth
- Prevents new stains from adhering as well throughout treatment
Here’s how:
1. Eliminates Stains and Discoloration
As you switch to new aligner trays every couple of weeks:
- Old stains gradually wear off the surface of your teeth
- Your teeth become cleaner and brighter looking as a result
Frequent removal of aligners allows better brushing and flossing access to enhance stain removal as well.
2. Minimizes New Stains
In addition to wearing off old stains on teeth, Invisalign aligners also:
- Shield teeth from picking up common staining culprits like coffee, red wine, tobacco, etc
- Help prevent plaque buildup on teeth due to full coverage
This one-two punch of stain removal and stain protection naturally leads to whiter teeth over time with consistent Invisalign use.
However – don’t expect Invisalign to produce the drastic bleaching power of professional whitening treatments though. The whitening effects are relatively subtle.
Teeth Whitening + Invisalign Benefits:
There are several benefits of combining Invisalign with veneers:
- Boost whitening beyond Invisalign’s capabilities
- Achieve whiter teeth safely without pausing progress
- Get a head start on whiteness before finishing treatment
- Enjoy a whiter, brighter smile in as little as 1 hour
So don’t be afraid to inquire about intensifying that Invisalign smile with professional whitening!
Maintain a White Smile Post-Treatment
Congratulations – you made it through Invisalign treatment with straighter, whiter teeth!
But the teeth whitening journey doesn’t stop when you’re done with aligners.
Be sure to continue preventing stains and discoloration using the following methods:
✔️ Brush & floss thoroughly twice a day
✔️ Use an electric toothbrush if possible
✔️ See your dentist for regular cleanings & polishing
✔️ Limit consumption of staining foods & drinks
✔️ Get touch-up whitening annually or as needed
Staying diligent with oral hygiene and avoiding stain culprits will keep your brightened smile shining for longer.
Let Us Help You Safely Straighten & Whiten Your Teeth
At Lansdowne Family Dental, we specialize in helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautiful smiles they can feel confident showing off.
- We offer cutting-edge Invisalign treatment for discreet teeth straightening
- Plus professional Teeth Whitening and custom whitening trays take your smile to the next level
With the latest orthodontic technology and whitening techniques, we can transform your smile during and after Invisalign without ever compromising your comfort or oral health.
Contact our Experienced Dental Team Today!
For more information or to schedule your initial orthodontic or teeth whitening consultation, give Lansdowne Family Dental a call today. We’re always happy to discuss options for a healthier, brighter smile!
