Teeth Cleaning vs. Teeth Whitening

A lot of the time, teeth cleaning is confusing for Markham patients who assume that cleaning procedures will also double as a teeth whitening process as well. While deep cleans are good ways to promote healthy oral hygiene and encourage regular brushing and flossing, that doesn’t always mean that stains will be removed wholly in the process. There is a separate process for teeth whitening that isn’t just cosmetic — it acts as a confidence booster and incentive to keep teeth clean year-round.
Teeth Cleaning
Deep cleans are definitely any dental patients’ priority, first and foremost. Often, dentists won’t allow you to whiten until they are sure that any underlying plaque buildup has first been removed. Regular (one-to-two times per year) deep cleans can prevent cavities, stop tooth loss and gum disease, brighten your smile to a degree, freshen your breath, and even boost your overall health. Studies have repeatedly linked oral hygiene with overall health. Plus, scheduling regular cleanings can actually save you money in the long run by helping you avoid potential costly, extensive procedures to reverse years of damage caused by plaque build-up.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening frequenters in Markham, Ontario have access to a dentist-approved home whitening kit that is more effective than over-the-counter solutions. Over-the-counter kits also have dangerous side effects if used improperly. Because professional kits can be prescribed by your dentist, they can work with you to make sure you use them correctly for long-lasting results, as well as in tandem with a professional cleaning before to make sure the whitening process is even more effective.
The pleasant side effect of teeth whitening that people don’t know about is its benefits to patients confidence in their smile as well as their ability to stick to a daily routine. Patients are more likely to keep up good brushing and flossing habits after a teeth whitening procedure in order to maintain their bright smile. Additionally, observing stains from years of coffee drinking and smoking can also lead patients to discover potential signs of decay that can be brought to dental professionals’ attention early enough to prevent a more devastating disease.
If you have weak enamel or a history of sensitivity, you may not be a good candidate for whitening procedures. This is what makes over-the-counter whiteners dangerous. By using whiteners prescribed by your dentist, they can make sure that you are not putting your oral health at risk for a cosmetic treatment.
If you’re in Markham and interested in teeth whitening, reach out to your dentist to be pointed in the right direction for careful, safe whitening options. While you’re there, getting a general teeth cleaning is your best bet for preventing harmful disease. Markham 7 Dental can do it all.