Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned Before Whitening
Teeth whitening has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people wanting to achieve a brighter, more confident smile. However, before undergoing any whitening treatment, it is important to consider whether or not you should get your teeth cleaned first.
What is Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is the process of removing plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth. This is typically done by a dental hygienist using special tools and techniques.
The purpose of teeth cleaning is to prevent and treat gum disease, as well as to maintain overall oral health. It is recommended that you get your teeth cleaned every six months to a year, depending on your individual needs.
Why Get Your Teeth Cleaned Before Whitening?
Getting your teeth cleaned before whitening is important for several reasons. First, it ensures that your teeth are healthy and free of any underlying issues that could affect the whitening process.
Second, it helps to remove any surface stains or discoloration that could interfere with the whitening treatment. This can help to maximize the effectiveness of the whitening treatment and ensure that you get the best possible results.
What Happens if You Don't Get Your Teeth Cleaned First?
If you skip getting your teeth cleaned before whitening, you run the risk of experiencing some negative side effects. For example, if you have underlying dental issues such as cavities or gum disease, these can become worse during the whitening process.
In addition, if you have surface stains or discoloration on your teeth, these can become more pronounced after whitening. This can result in an uneven or unnatural-looking smile, which is not the desired outcome of any whitening treatment.
What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning?
If you decide to get your teeth cleaned before whitening, here's what you can expect during the process:
- Your dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to check for any issues.
- Your hygienist will then use special tools to remove any plaque, tartar, and debris from your teeth.
- Your hygienist may also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains or discoloration.
- You may be given a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and protect against cavities.
The entire process typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the extent of cleaning that needs to be done.
Conclusion
Overall, it is highly recommended that you get your teeth cleaned before undergoing any whitening treatment. This will ensure that your teeth are healthy and free of any underlying issues, and will help to maximize the effectiveness of the whitening treatment.
If you're unsure whether or not to get your teeth cleaned before whitening, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist. They can provide you with personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and goals.
