Kids and Teeth from Babyhood to University

In the modern era, many people are self-conscious about how they look. That explains why teeth whitening is one of the most highly sought after cosmetic dental treatment offered by dentists in Australia and several other countries worldwide. However, some people often confuse teeth whitening with teeth cleaning thinking the two kinds of dental procedures are one and the same thing.

If you've been wondering whether having your teeth whitened is the same thing as having them cleaned, read on below to find out the differences.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a type of dental treatment that can be performed by a cosmetic dentist with the primary goal of making the patient's teeth whiter and brighter. In other words, this type of treatment is purely cosmetic. It involves the use of a bleaching agent to turn the original shade of teeth. For the most part, peroxide is the primary bleaching product used to make teeth whiter and brighter. To achieve the patient's desired tooth colour, the dentist refers to a shade guide. 

It is worth noting, however, that teeth whitening treatment isn't for everyone. Generally speaking, teeth whitening treatment works best for patients with yellow or slightly discoloured teeth and it may not be recommended for patients with certain conditions, including those with cavities, cosmetic restorations such as veneers and crowns, sensitive teeth and gums and peroxide allergies. 

Teeth Cleaning 

If you'd like to keep your pearly whites white and bright the natural way, then going for regular teeth cleanings at the dental office should be a top-of-mind priority for you. Teeth cleaning typically involves the removal of plaque and tartar, which cannot be removed from the teeth through regular brushing and flossing. This dental procedure is referred to as scaling because the dentist uses a handheld device known as a dental scaler to remove the plaque and tartar. 

If not removed from the teeth, plaque and tartar can lead to tooth discolouration but also cause dental infections and diseases, which may be expensive to treat. It is, therefore, worth noting that lack of regular teeth cleanings may cause one to require whitening treatment if they meet all other criteria for the treatment.

The best way for you to find out whether or not you're a suitable candidate for whitening treatment is to consult a qualified cosmetic dentist. They will assess your situation and let you know whether or not you're eligible for the treatment.