Regular teeth cleanings from your dentist on Hiatus Rd offer several benefits to your smile: they remove plaque and tartar, prevents issues like cavities and gum disease, and can even eliminate small dental stains.
Can a simple cleaning remove all of my stains? The answer to that depends on the type of staining you’re experiencing.
Teeth cleaning, also known as professional dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar, keeping your smile healthy. It’s an essential part of maintaining oral health, as these bacterial substances are the source of issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
By controlling them, dentists ensure your smile stays healthy for years to come. But does it whiten your teeth?
Yes, teeth cleaning can remove stains from your smile, but only to a certain extent. The effects depend on the type of dental staining you have.
Surface stains are caused by coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and certain foods. They cling to the outer layer of the tooth enamel and are usually yellow or brown in color. Professional dental cleanings are very effective at removing these stains.
Deep discoloration, on the other hand, occurs beneath the surface of the enamel. This can be due to aging, certain medications, trauma to the tooth, or excessive fluoride exposure. Teeth cleaning does not reach this level of discoloration, so a whitening treatment would be needed to address it.
During a standard cleaning, the dental professional uses special tools to remove:
-Plaque: A soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth.
-Tartar (Calculus): Hardened plaque that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing at home.
-Surface Stains: Caused by food, drinks, and tobacco use.
After the cleaning, the teeth are polished with a gritty toothpaste-like substance that helps smooth the enamel and remove any remaining stain particles. This polishing step often makes the teeth look shinier and brighter.
While dental cleaning can remove superficial stains from your smile, some deeper discoloration may require additional treatment options.
For stains that go beyond what cleaning can address, your dental professional can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate solution. This might include cosmetic treatments (such as teeth whitening) or other options depending, on the type and severity of the staining.
Your dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses both your oral health needs and aesthetic goals.
Teeth cleaning can make your smile look fresher and brighter by removing surface stains, tartar, and plaque. While it won’t change the natural shade of your enamel, it plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and keeping your teeth looking their best.
By visiting Village Square Dental for regular cleanings, you can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and stubborn buildup that dulls your smile. Scheduling a professional cleaning every six months is one of the simplest ways to protect both the health and appearance of your teeth.
Call us today to get started!