Everyday life during treatmentQuestion before treatment

When is the best time to whiten my teeth – before or after treatment?

Answered byDr Ivelina Ivanova-Koycheva, Orthodontist (MSc)Master's degrees in orthodontics in Rome and in aligner treatment in Turin, international lecturerPublished on 12 November 2026

If your teeth have already been whitened, it is advisable to wait at least three weeks before having braces or aligners fitted. Scientific papers show that the bond strength of brackets and aligner attachments (buttons) on recently whitened teeth is about 16% weaker, which can make the appliance less stable. That is why it is best to whiten your teeth after your orthodontic treatment is complete.

This answer is for general information. Your own case needs an examination by an orthodontist.