When is the best time to book a whitening procedure with your dentist after orthodontic treatment?

Marlon A. Moldez, DMD, MS, MSc, PhD

If the patient has poor oral hygiene, gingivitis, enamel demineralization (white spot lesions), and tooth cavities are likely. Because tooth-whitening agents can exacerbate these conditions, patients must first restore the health of the teeth and gums and maintain optimal oral health for at least 4-8 weeks before scheduling a tooth-whitening procedure after orthodontic treatment. With meticulous cleaning (tooth brushing) and plaque control by your dentist or oral hygienist, the gums naturally heal, and the enamel remineralizes from the action of calcium and phosphate in saliva.