Do your teeth appear yellow or stained despite brushing daily? It is frustrating when your smile isn’t as bright as you would like.
We know how this can make you feel about your confidence. You may wonder if a simple visit to the dentist will help. The response is yes. Dental cleanings in Grande Prairie can clear out stains that brushing at home cannot. They not only maintain your mouth in good health but can also cause your teeth to appear whiter and cleaner.
In this blog, we’ll explain how dental cleanings work and whether they actually help with teeth whitening.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning is a standard process that involves the elimination of plaque and tartar from your teeth. Even when you brush and floss daily, some of it can only be eliminated with special dental equipment.
A professional cleaning also involves polishing your teeth, which removes surface stains created by food, beverages, or smoking.
This polishing can make your teeth look whiter immediately. Still, it’s worth noting that this is different from a full teeth whitening procedure.
Will Cleaning Your Teeth Whiten Them?
Yes, but only to an extent. Professional cleaning will eliminate yellowish plaque and several surface stains, making your smile appear cleaner and a bit whiter. If your teeth are stained on the surface (extrinsic stains), a cleaning can make them look much better.
But if your teeth have more profound (intrinsic) stains, such as those caused by medication, aging, or trauma, a cleaning will not suffice. That is when teeth whitening procedures are necessary to whiten your smile better.
What is the difference between whitening and cleaning?
Here’s a breakdown:
Professional cleaning wipes out damaging deposits such as plaque and tartar. It’s done to forestall gum disease and tooth decay.
Teeth whitening is to make the teeth lighter. Whitening procedures involve the use of bleaching substances such as hydrogen peroxide that penetrate deep beyond the enamel and lighten discolouring deep stains.
So although cleanings can make your teeth look better, whitening is the way to go if your primary concern is a whiter smile.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
A cleaning every six months is most often suggested by dentists. It keeps your teeth healthy and provides your smile with a fresh look. Regular cleanings are also an opportunity for your Grande Prairie dentist to find early warning signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other issues.
If you’ve had gum problems or wear braces, you might need to visit more frequently. Staying on schedule with these visits also minimizes staining over the long term, so your teeth remain whiter longer.
What Are the Advantages of Combining Cleaning and Whitening?
To get optimal results, a cleaning must precede a whitening procedure. Here’s why:
Cleaning eliminates trash so the whitening gel has access to all areas of your teeth.
It prevents uneven whitening effects.
Your dentist can determine whether your teeth are healthy enough for whitening.
Using both together provides you with the healthiest and whitest smile possible.
Can You Keep Your Teeth White After a Cleaning?
Yes. After your cleaning, you can maintain the brighter look by:
- Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Avoiding coffee, tea, wine, and smoking
- Drinking water after meals to rinse away stains
- Visiting your dentist regularly
Your daily habits make a big difference in how long the clean and white look lasts.
Is Whitening Safe for Everyone?
Professional whitening is safe when done by a dental expert.
Over-the-counter products can sometimes cause sensitivity or damage if overused. That’s why it’s important to speak with your dentist in Grande Prairie before starting any whitening treatment. They’ll guide you toward safe and effective options.
Final thoughts!
Dental cleanings help make your smile look brighter by removing surface stains and polishing your teeth. While they don’t replace whitening treatments for deeper stains, they are essential for maintaining a healthy and clean smile.
If you’re looking to brighten your smile or keep up with your regular dental care, Dental Care Centre is here to help. With experienced professionals and a focus on patient comfort, they make routine care simple and effective.
Bright Teeth Start with Healthy Habits
Book your next cleaning at Dental Care Centre today and enjoy a fresh, confident smile.