Teeth Whitening and Cleaning

Yes, it is possible to get both teeth cleaning and whitening at the same time, and many dental professionals offer this combination in a single appointment. Here's how each procedure works and how they can be safely combined:

Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Polishing)

Teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and polishing, involves the professional removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the surface of the teeth. This process helps:

Prevent gum disease and cavities
Improve oral hygiene
Remove surface stains from food, drinks, or tobacco
Make your teeth look brighter by eliminating buildup

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening typically uses bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to lighten the color of your teeth and remove deeper stains that are not removed through regular cleaning.

Whitening treatments can be done in-office (with professional-grade products) or at home with take-home kits prescribed by your dentist.

Combining the Two Procedures

Why combine them? Teeth cleaning first removes plaque and surface stains, creating a smooth and clean surface, which allows the whitening agent to work more effectively. Whitening your teeth on top of a professional cleaning ensures that you achieve the best results.

Process:

Teeth Cleaning: The dentist or hygienist will first clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. This makes the whitening process more effective.

Teeth Whitening: After cleaning, the whitening gel or treatment is applied to your teeth. This treatment can be done either with a laser or light to activate the gel for a faster result.

Benefits of Getting Both Together

Maximizing Results: Cleaning removes the buildup that could prevent whitening agents from working effectively.
Efficiency: You get both procedures done in one visit, saving time.
Enhanced Aesthetic: A clean and polished surface helps your teeth appear brighter and whiter immediately after treatment.

Considerations

Sensitivity: Both teeth cleaning and whitening can cause some tooth sensitivity, so it's important to discuss any concerns with your dentist beforehand.
Post-Whitening Care: After whitening, it's advisable to avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, like coffee, red wine, or tobacco, to maintain the results.

In summary, getting teeth cleaning and whitening at the same time is not only safe but also highly effective, as the cleaning process enhances the results of the whitening procedure. If you're considering both, it's a good idea to consult with your dentist to ensure the combination is right for your specific dental needs.