Dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are essential for maintaining good oral health. They involve a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria, preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. However, many people wonder if dental cleanings also whiten teeth.
The Purpose of Dental Cleanings
The primary purpose of dental cleanings is to remove plaque and tartar, which are the main culprits behind tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth after eating, and tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.
The Effect of Dental Cleaning on Teeth Whiteness
While dental cleanings do not whiten teeth in the same way that professional teeth whitening treatments do, they can make teeth appear whiter by removing surface stains caused by food, drinks, and tobacco use. This is because the polishing process used during a dental cleaning can remove these stains, revealing the natural color of the teeth.
The Limitations of Dental Cleaning for Whitening
Dental cleanings are not a substitute for professional teeth whitening if you are looking for a significant change in the color of your teeth. Professional teeth whitening treatments use stronger bleaching agents that can penetrate the tooth enamel and remove deeper stains.
Additional Considerations
Here are some additional things to consider about dental cleanings and teeth whitening:
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The Effect of Age: As we age, our teeth naturally become more yellow due to the thinning of tooth enamel. Dental cleanings can help remove surface stains, but they may not be able to restore the whiteness of younger teeth.
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The Use of Whitening Products: If you use whitening products at home, such as whitening strips or toothpaste, you may not need professional teeth whitening as often. However, regular dental cleanings are still important to maintain overall oral health.
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The Cost of Treatment: Dental cleanings are typically covered by dental insurance, while professional teeth whitening treatments are often considered cosmetic procedures and may not be covered.
Conclusion
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. While they do not whiten teeth to the same extent as professional teeth whitening treatments, they can remove surface stains and make teeth appear whiter. If you are concerned about the color of your teeth, talk to your dentist about your options for teeth whitening. Please find the dental office near you in these locations: Attleboro, Chelmsford, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Lynn, Manchester, Methuen, Roslindale, Taunton.
