Teeth Cleaning And Whitening: What’s The Difference

Teeth cleaning and whitening are two common dental procedures that many people undergo at some point in their lives. While both teeth cleaning and whitening involve cleaning teeth, there are some key differences between the two procedures. The major difference between teeth cleaning and whitening is that teeth cleaning is a preventive measure, while teeth whitening is cosmetic.

Teeth cleaning is important for maintaining good oral health. It involves removing plaque and tartar from teeth using a toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as flossing. This helps to prevent cavities and gum disease. Teeth whitening, on the other hand, is a way to improve the appearance of teeth. It involves using a bleaching agent to remove stains and make teeth look brighter.

In this article, we will explore the differences between teeth cleaning and whitening and help you decide which procedure is right for you.

Teeth Cleaning And Its Types

Teeth cleaning is an important part of oral hygiene. It helps to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and improve the overall health of the gums. There are three main types of teeth cleaning: prophylaxis cleaning, scaling and root planing, and gross debridement.

Prophylaxis Cleaning

Prophylaxis cleaning is the most basic type of teeth cleaning. It involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste. This type of cleaning is recommended for healthy teeth and gums.

Prophylaxis cleaning can be done at home or the dentist’s office. If you choose to have it done at the dentist’s office, they will use a special toothbrush and paste designed to remove plaque and tartar.

If you choose to do it at home, you will need to use a regular toothbrush and toothpaste. Be sure to brush your teeth for two minutes, using circular and back-and-forth motions, twice a day.

Scaling and Root Planing 

Scaling and root planing is a more advanced type of teeth cleaning. It involves the removal of plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surfaces of the teeth and the roots of the teeth. This type of cleaning is recommended for people who have gum disease.

Scaling and root planing can be done at the dentist’s office or home. If you choose to have it done at the dentist’s office, they will use a special instrument called a scaler to remove the plaque and calculus.

If you choose to do it at home, you will need to purchase a scaler and use it according to the instructions that come with it. 

Gross Debridement

Gross debridement is the most advanced type of teeth cleaning. It involves the removal of plaque, calculus (tartar), and infected tissue from the teeth and gums. This type of cleaning is only recommended for people with severe gum disease.

Gross debridement can only be done at the dentist’s office. The dentist will use a special instrument called a curette to remove the plaque, calculus, and infected tissue.

Benefits and Goals of Teeth Cleaning

Teeth cleaning is an important part of oral care. It helps to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, leading to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. By regularly cleaning your teeth, you can help keep your smile healthy and looking great.

The benefits of teeth cleaning go beyond just oral health. It can also help improve your overall health. Studies have shown that people who have regular teeth cleanings are less likely to develop heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions.

Teeth cleaning is also a great way to maintain your smile. Tartar buildup can cause your teeth to yellow and stain over time. Regular teeth cleanings can help prevent this and keep your smile looking bright and beautiful.

Teeth Whitening And Its Types

Teeth whitening is the process of lightening teeth by removing stains and discoloration. Teeth whitening can be done at home or in a dental office. There are two types of teeth whitening: over-the-counter whitening trays and strips and in-office laser bleaching.

Over-The-Counter Whitening Trays and Strips

Over-the-counter whitening trays and strips are the most common type of teeth whitening. These products come in a kit that includes a tray or strip that fits over the teeth and a bleaching agent applied to the tray or strip. Over-the-counter whitening products work best on mild to moderate staining.

Whitening strips are thin, flexible strips coated with a bleaching agent. The strips are applied to the teeth and left in place for 30 minutes. The strips can be used up to twice a day.

Whitening trays are made of plastic or rubber and fit over the teeth. The trays hold the bleaching agent against the teeth. Whitening trays are used for 1-2 hours a day for up to two weeks.

In-Office Laser Bleaching

In-office laser bleaching is a more expensive and aggressive teeth whitening treatment. It uses a laser and bleaching agent to whiten teeth. The laser heats the bleaching agent, which speeds up the whitening process. In-office laser bleaching can lighten teeth up to eight shades in one treatment.

In-office laser bleaching is not recommended for people with sensitive teeth or gums. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or people with diabetes.

Benefits and Goals of Teeth Whitening

When it comes to teeth whitening, there are many benefits that can be achieved. Some of the key benefits include:

• A brighter, whiter smile
• Improved self-confidence
• Less anxiety when smiling in social settings
• An overall improved appearance

Teeth whitening can also provide key goal-oriented outcomes. Teeth whitening may be used as part of a treatment plan for improving the overall appearance of a person’s smile. It can also improve oral health and hygiene by removing plaque and bacteria from the teeth.

Teeth Cleaning And Whitening: What’s The Difference

Teeth cleaning and whitening are two different dental procedures that serve different purposes. Teeth cleaning is a procedure used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. It helps keep the teeth clean and free from bacteria, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Teeth whitening is a procedure used to lighten the teeth by removing stains and discoloration. It can be done at home or in a dental office.

The main difference between teeth cleaning and whitening is that teeth cleaning is a preventive measure, while teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Teeth cleaning helps keep the teeth healthy and free from bacteria, while teeth whitening can lighten the teeth by removing stains and discoloration.

Both teeth cleaning and whitening are important dental procedures that should be part of a person’s oral health care routine. Teeth cleaning helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, while teeth whitening can lighten the teeth by removing stains and discoloration. Regular teeth cleaning and whitening can help keep your smile looking bright and beautiful.

Bottom Line

Teeth Cleaning and whitening are two different processes that help you achieve the same goal- a whiter, cleaner smile. While teeth whitening is an in-office procedure that typically requires at least one visit to your dentist’s office, tooth cleaning can be done on your own with home care products like Crest 3D White Toothpaste or Oral B Floss Action Manual Toothbrush. Both teeth cleaning and whitening work by removing surface stains from the tooth enamel while also providing other benefits such as gum protection and fresher breath.