Teeth cleaning vs whitening is a common topic we discuss with our patients at Junction Family Dental Care.
These two procedures are very different and serve different purposes in your dental care.
Teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your teeth.
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that makes your teeth look better by removing stains and yellowing.
Both treatments are important for maintaining a bright and healthy smile.
Keep reading to learn more about the key differences between teeth cleaning vs whitening.
Despite regular brushing and flossing, completely removing all leftover food particles is often challenging.
Any remaining bits can serve as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and acids, putting tooth enamel at risk and leading to cavities.
Teeth cleaning is the gold standard in preventive care, ensuring that your teeth stay in shape and free from those stubborn remains.
The procedure involves the thorough removal of plaque, tartar, and surface stains.
During a cleaning appointment, a dentist or hygienist uses specialized tools to carefully clean every nook and cranny of your teeth, particularly in those hard-to-reach areas that everyday brushing often neglects.
Regular dental cleanings help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. It can also make your teeth look a bit whiter by getting rid of yellow tartar and stains.
But the main goal is to remove harmful deposits, not just to make your smile brighter.
Teeth cleaning brings numerous benefits to patients and is recommended from a very young age for children.
Some of the advantages include:
It's best to schedule teeth cleanings every six months to keep your gums and teeth healthy.
Some patients may feel slightly discomfort during the cleaning, especially if they have sensitive gums from gingivitis.
However, the procedure is generally pain-free, and you usually won't need anesthesia or numbing.
A cleaning session typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
The time depends on how much tartar has built up and when your last visit was.
Over time, your teeth can get stains from coffee, red wine, smoking, and food.
Teeth whitening is a top cosmetic procedure that can make your teeth look whiter and brighter, improving your smile.
There are different ways to whiten teeth.
You can get professional treatments at a dentist's office, or you can use over-the-counter products at home.
Professional whitening usually gives faster and more noticeable results because dentists use stronger bleaching agents and special techniques.
However, using too many whitening products can make your teeth sensitive or cause damage.
It's important to follow the packaging instructions and ask our professional team for advice to ensure safe and effective results.
There are two main types of teeth whitening treatments.
You can find a variety of whitening strips and trays at your local pharmacy, which typically contain lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide than those used by the dentist at Junction Family Dental Care.
These over-the-counter products are suitable for lightening teeth a few shades without deep stains.
In-office teeth whitening uses hydrogen peroxide, activated by heat or blue light, and lasts about an hour.
You may need multiple visits to achieve better results in the long run.
Teeth whitening offers many benefits beyond simply making your smile look better:
Choosing between teeth cleaning vs whitening should not be a daunting task.
By maintaining a consistent at-home oral care routine alongside regular teeth cleanings, you can effectively prevent a variety of dental issues.
If you want a brighter smile, teeth whitening can be a great choice.
Teeth cleaning is a responsibility required for your well-being every six months, while teeth whitening is a great option to enhance your smile and boost self-confidence.
If you’re interested in exploring other treatment options available in Toronto, don’t hesitate—book an appointment with us today!
