You’re still adamant that, despite your visit to the dentist for cleaning, your teeth don’t look very white anymore.
This is not a solitary case; many patients believe that getting their teeth cleaned means they won’t have any stains on their teeth or their teeth will not appear dull. It has always been easy for a person to confuse a clean mouth with a white mouth.
We know exactly how important getting a regular cleaning is to anybody’s confidence. Have you been looking at answers about dental cleanings near you?
This guide details everything cleaning can and cannot do and what sorts of options you can use for stain removal.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning
A dental cleaning is intended to get the plaque out in the tartar and surface stains. It consists of:
- Scaling to get rid of hardened plaque or tartar
- Polishing for the elimination of certain surface stains
- Flossing to reach between teeth
- Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
The primary objective is to protect your oral health rather than whiten your teeth. Surface discolorations will, however, benefit from stain removal during dental cleaning.
Teeth Whitening vs. Professional Cleaning: What’s the Difference?
Many patients mix up these two procedures. So, let’s compare teeth whitening vs. professional cleaning:
| Feature | Dental Cleaning | Teeth Whitening |
| Purpose | Remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains | Lighten the natural color of teeth |
| Performed by | Dental hygienist or dentist | Dentist or under dental supervision |
| Involves whitening agents? | No | Yes (peroxide-based agents) |
| Results | Cleaner, healthier teeth | Visibly whiter smile |
| Covered by insurance? | Often, yes | Often not |
As seen above, professional cleanings are preventive, while whitening treatments are cosmetic.
Can Plaque Removal Make Teeth Whiter?
A common question is: can plaque removal make teeth whiter?
Yes, but only to an extent. Plaque and tartar build-up can give your teeth a yellow or dull appearance. Removing these deposits reveals your natural tooth color, which may appear slightly brighter. However, if your teeth are naturally off-white or have deep stains, you won’t see dramatic whitening from cleaning alone.
What Types of Stains Can Cleanings Remove?
There are two types of dental stains:
- Extrinsic stains: Caused by coffee, tea, wine, smoking, etc. These may be removed during cleanings.
- Intrinsic stains: Caused by aging, trauma, or certain medications. These lie deeper in the tooth and require professional whitening or cosmetic treatment.
Routine cleanings can reduce or eliminate some extrinsic stains, but intrinsic ones need more advanced treatment options.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
For most people, dental cleanings are recommended every six months. However, if you have gum disease, frequent plaque buildup, or a high risk of cavities, your dentist may recommend cleanings more often.
A trusted dental clinic in Ottawa will customize your care schedule to your specific needs.
Should You Consider Whitening After a Cleaning?
Yes, whitening treatments often work better after a professional cleaning. This is because your teeth are free of plaque and tartar, allowing whitening agents to penetrate the enamel more effectively.
Your dentist may recommend an in-office or take-home whitening system based on your goals and tooth sensitivity.
Other Ways to Maintain a Brighter Smile
Here are a few extra tips for keeping your smile looking clean and bright between visits:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Use a whitening toothpaste (approved by dental associations)
- Floss daily
- Avoid smoking and limit staining foods and drinks
- Drink water after meals
- Use a straw for colored beverages
These steps, combined with regular cleanings, help minimize staining over time.
Do Cleanings Have Any Cosmetic Benefits?
While cleanings aren’t designed for whitening, they do:
- Remove yellow tartar
- Polish away minor surface stains
- Leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean
This gives the appearance of a fresher smile, even if the color doesn’t change drastically.
When Should You Choose Professional Whitening Instead?
If you have:
- Deep, long-lasting stains
- Naturally darker teeth
- A special event coming up
- Desire for a noticeably whiter smile? Then whitening is the better option.
Your dentist can assess your teeth and help you decide if a whitening treatment, veneers, or other cosmetic procedures are suitable for your needs.
Who Can Benefit Most From Cleanings?
Dental cleanings benefit everyone. Whether you’re a teenager with braces, an adult managing gum health, or a senior maintaining oral hygiene, regular cleanings keep your smile healthy. Pairing cleanings with professional advice can help you choose the right cosmetic options, including whitening.
Wrapping Up!
It’s important to have realistic expectations. Cleanings will not make your teeth white like a whitening session would. But they do help in reducing stains and giving you a healthier appearance overall. If you’re looking for a truly brighter smile, talk to your dentist about cosmetic options.
Dental cleanings play a major role in oral health and appearance. While they won’t whiten your teeth dramatically, they lay the foundation for a clean and healthy smile that supports further cosmetic treatments.
Smile Brighter, Live More Confidently
If you’re looking for cosmetic advice or simply want your next cleaning done right, visit a trusted dentist in Ottawa to start the journey of your bright and healthy smile.
At Dr. Sirwan Dental, a leading dental clinic in Ottawa, we’re here to help you achieve your healthiest, most confident smile. Book your consultation today!