Routine dental care goes a long way in preventing health complications of your mouth in the near or distant future. Cleaning and whitening of the teeth are major surgeries that are often confused as being similar to one another. However, these two processes have different objectives and approaches.
- Definition and purpose of teeth cleaning
Cleaning is a type of surgical dental procedure commonly known as dental prophylaxis that aims at removal of tartar, plaque, and other stains from the surface of the teeth. The main aim of teeth cleaning is avoidance of tooth cavities, gum infections as well as other oral diseases caused by unhealthy hygiene.
Different from teeth whitening, teeth cleaning concentrates on the proper oral hygiene instead of the general look of the teeth. A dentist in Plano may help you know how teeth whitening or teeth cleaning may be suitable for you according to your oral health.
- What is Prophylaxis?
The term prophylaxis has been described by dentists as routine cleaning of the teeth. This consists of scaling or esthetic cleaning plus polishing and it strives to maintain health of the teeth. This is a recommended procedure every six months in order to protect the gums, teeth and mouth from future decay.
- Deep cleaning vs. regular cleaning
While regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is appropriate for those with healthy gums, patients with gum disease (periodontal disease) require deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. Deep cleaning is cleaning performed below the gum line, which is the area beneath the gums, where plaque and tartar are removed from the root surfaces of the teeth. This form of cleaning may require several appointments and often needs local anesthesia to be effective.
- Benefits of regular dental cleanings
Some benefits of regular dental cleaning are as follows:
- Prevents gum disease and cavities.
- Eliminates unattainable plaque and tartar using regular brushing.
- Plans towards airy and fresh breath by getting rid of leftover food particles.
- Reduces the chances of losing teeth and suffering any oral hygiene issues.
- Regular cleaning helps to get rid of harmful bacteria present in your mouth.
Definition And Purpose of Teeth Whitening
Tooth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that enhances the aesthetic value of the teeth by making them brighter and removing surface stains, blemishes or marks. One thing teeth whitening treatments do not do is provide solutions for all oral health problems. For instance, cavities as well as gum disease are oral health issues that whitening treatments do not address. These treatments mainly focus on the aesthetic value of the teeth.
- How teeth whitening works?
The methods of Plano teeth whitening involve the application of chemicals, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which serve to dissolve the end and outermost layers of the teeth. The chemicals applied penetrate the outer skin referred to as enamel and help the natural teeth to turn whiter by lightening their original tint or color.
- Benefits of teeth whitening: Teeth whitening treatment provides various advantages. Some are as follows:
- Improvement in the brightness and youthfulness of your smile.
- Boosts personal confidence as well as self-esteem.
- Helps in getting rid of stains present on the teeth by consumption of coffee, tea, tobacco as well as food or drinks.
- Creates safety when done by a professional or using other common products available in the market.
Different techniques and methods
- Teeth cleaning methods: Following are the two main teeth cleaning methods:
- In-office cleaning procedures
In-office cleaning procedures include the one that has the dentist or nurse who cleans the teeth by removing tartar and plaque using special tools like scalers and ultrasonic. Teeth polishing helps to remove surface stains which is the last part of cleaning.
- Home dental hygiene tips
Dental care includes plaque removal through brushing and flossing, but they cannot take off all plaque or even tartar. Using fluoride toothpaste along with mouthwash, in addition to brushing and flossing will help maintain the benefits of a professional cleaning.
Teeth whitening techniques
- In-office whitening options: These specialized treatments can be performed at a dentist’s office for one or two hours, and can significantly whiten teeth in a single session. This is done by using stronger bleaching agents and yield immediate and desired results.
- At-home whitening kits: These range from whitening strips and gels to trays, and can be purchased without a prescription. While not as powerful as in-office kits, they are still able to yield remarkable results after being used consistently.
- Natural Whitening remedies: Do they work?
Natural methods such as baking soda, activated charcoal, or oil pulling are usually used to whiten teeth at home, but they are not as effective as professional whitening treatments. Those remedies may help with surface stains, but if used in excess, could damage tooth enamel.
Comprehensive Comparison of Teeth Cleaning vs. Teeth Whitening
- Goals and outcomes
Teeth cleaning help in sustaining oral hygiene as well as preventing decay and gum diseases.
Teeth whitening is aimed at improving physical appearance of the teeth as well as lightening their color.
- Health benefits vs. Aesthetic goals
Teeth whitening is primarily of cosmetic nature, aimed at bettering the appearance of the teeth. It is important to know what to eat after teeth whitening for the long-term benefits of whitening.
Teeth cleaning is done for health reasons, ensuring removal of plaque and tartar from gums and teeth.
- Procedures and duration
Teeth cleaning is recommended to be done every six months, taking roughly thirty minutes to one hour.
Teeth whitening procedures include in-office whitening which takes about an hour, and home-based product whitening ranging from a few days to weeks.
- Side effects and safety concerns
Teeth cleaning come with minimal risks, although patients who have very sensitive gums may have some discomfort.
Teeth cleaning can lead to gum irritation.
- Effectiveness and expected results
Initial oral health outcomes include the teeth becoming significantly cleaner and the gums healthier.
Teeth whitening results may vary according to the approach applied, with in-office service offering the most significant improvements in the short time duration.
- Long-term maintenance tips
Oral hygiene can be preserved with regular cleaning sessions every half year and adequate brushing and flossing.
Post-teeth whitening touch-up kits will also be required from time to time, and foods, drinks, and smoking that lead to staining should be steered clear of.
Common Questions And Considerations
- Can you undergo both procedures simultaneously?
It is possible to do both teeth cleaning and whitening. However, it is generally best to start with cleaning. It is because surface stains are removed before applying the whitening agents.
- Does cleaning contribute to whiter teeth?
When teeth are cleaned, tartar and stains are removed but teeth whitening would not be done. On the other hand, when someone cleans their teeth, their teeth may seem brighter because the dulling stain was removed.
- How to choose between cleaning and whitening?
If your concern is maintaining your oral hygiene and making sure that your teeth do not cause cavities or pain in the future, cleansing would be ideal for you. For a person who is looking to show off a stunning smile, whitening their teeth is the better option.
- Should teeth be cleaned before whitening?
Absolutely, teeth should always be cleaned before they are whitened. The whitening products will only work effectively if the person’s teeth are completely clean.
Maintaining White Teeth After a Cleaning or Whitening Treatment
After cleaning or whitening your teeth, it is important to maintain your results. Practicing good oral hygiene, removing stains, and even consuming drinks through a straw such as coffee and soda can be effective. Keeping your dental checkups will also allow your teeth to remain clean.
With the knowledge of cleaning and whitening, one is better suited to make a decision by consulting experts at Pinnacle Dental. They will provide recommendations concerning the surgery they would prefer depending on their oral hygiene and physical aspirations. Schedule a consultation and know the best dental treatment for your oral health.
