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What Is the Difference Between Dental Cleanings and Professional Teeth Whitening?

May 12, 2023
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Posted By: Dr. Ryan Henspetter
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Do you ever look in the mirror and wish you had a more beautiful smile? Maybe your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be, and you want to find out how to improve your appearance, but you aren’t sure what steps to take to make it happen. Should you get your teeth cleaned? Should you use teeth whiteners? There are certain misconceptions about the purpose of dental cleanings and professional teeth whitening, so let’s look at the differences between the two.

What Is Dental Cleaning?

A regular dental cleaning is recommended two times a year to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. To ensure healthy teeth and gums and avoid tooth decay and gum disease, a dental hygienist or dentist will clean and polish your teeth, as well as floss your teeth and apply fluoride. They will also discuss your oral hygiene habits and work with you to improve your at-home care.

What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is a branch of cosmetic dentistry that primarily aims to give you whiter teeth but doesn’t help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease like a dental cleaning will. If your teeth have become yellow or stained from age, certain foods or drinks, or smoking, professional teeth whitening may be an excellent option to improve the look of your smile and raise your self-esteem. A cosmetic dentist with special training will advise you on teeth whitening.

We offer take-home whitening kits so you can whiten your teeth when it’s convenient for you. We make impressions of your teeth to ensure a customized fit for your whitening trays; this way, you will achieve better whitening results and have fewer issues with the bleaching gel getting on your gums or soft tissues. We will be accessible for any questions you have during the whitening process.

Are You Looking for a General Dentist in Pacifica, CA?

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Cabrillo Family Dental Care, please contact us at (650) 359-1646. Whether you are interested in a dental cleaning, professional teeth whitening, or both, our team is ready to help with all your dental needs.

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