Tooth whitening during Invisalign therapy offers a seamless treatment protocol

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign is an increasingly popular choice in our practice because of the successful clinical outcomes, discreet appearance and patient convenience that the system provides. Patients frequently request tooth whitening as part of their treatment, and before we began using the Invisalign Professional Whitening System, our protocol would include a separate course of whitening at the conclusion of Invisalign treatment. However, this is no longer necessary, as the system, which uses a unique high-viscosity Opalescence whitening gel, allows practitioners to simplify the treatment protocol by effectively achieving orthodontic alignment and tooth whitening simultaneously.

My practice offers tooth whitening as a standard part of Invisalign aligner therapy, and we chose the Invisalign Professional Whitening System owing to its ease of use and compatibility with the aligners. Combining the two treatments negates the need for additional whitening trays, as the Invisalign whitening gel is applied directly into the aligners.

No compromise on performance

The whitening gel is formulated with optimised viscosity, which plays a crucial role in preventing washout during aligner wear. This ensures prolonged contact between the gel and tooth surfaces, optimising the whitening process without compromising the integrity of the aligners.

When patients request whitening, we use their mandibular dentition as the colour reference for the ideal shade we recommend for their teeth. Mandibular teeth tend to have fewer restorations, making it easier to assess natural tooth colour. We can typically achieve two to three shades lighter according to the VITA shade guide, and we recommend this to patients so that they remain within natural shade limits. However, the degree of whitening does depend on the patient’s desired outcome.

Our “gold standard” whitening protocol is to remove attachments and complete three to four weeks of whitening until the patient is happy with the resulting tooth shade. This is followed by one to two weeks of refractory purging before we can begin composite bonding. However, if we are working to a tight time frame or with a particularly impatient patient, we can leave attachments in place. The gel continues to work effectively behind the attachments, which makes the complete treatment as efficient as possible and reduces interventions. This helps to minimise any stress for the patient and can reduce chair time.

Results: A visibly brighter and whiter smile

The combined treatment approach achieves successful tooth movement and tooth whitening to address both functional and aesthetic concerns comprehensively. Since we have incorporated the Invisalign Professional Whitening System as part of our aligner protocols, patients have reported whiter teeth compared with the results of the whitening systems that we used previously. We believe that this is because the gel remains in the aligners, and so there is little to no washout and leakage.

Ultimately, results vary from patient to patient, depending on enamel age, dentinal tubules, patient compliance and the teeth’s response to the bleach. However, patients have reported good whitening results and reduced sensitivity compared with other whitening treatments they have undergone. They are also happy to complete the treatment as part of their Invisalign orthodontic treatment, rather than as a separate process. This is particularly important for patients undergoing aligner therapy with a duration of 12 months or more, given that enthusiasm may occasionally waver.

Predictability and efficacy

Patients are relieved that they do not have to wear full-coverage scalloped whitening trays after their Invisalign aligner therapy and that they can use their existing aligners, which streamlines the treatment process for both patient and clinician. Aside from the treatment itself, patients appear to find reassurance in our use of systems from the same trusted brand.

In conclusion, the Invisalign Professional Whitening System, when incorporated into aligner therapy, provides a comprehensive and efficient solution for patients seeking both orthodontic correction and tooth whitening. The benefits of simplified application within aligners and enhanced gel viscosity make this integrated approach an effective and efficient option for orthodontic treatments focused on an aesthetic result.

Visit Align Technology’s website for more information about the Invisalign Professional Whitening System.