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What Are the Differences Between Dental Cleanings and Professional Teeth Whitening?

May 8, 2023
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When you choose a dentist, your top priority should be finding someone who focuses on helping you achieve the best possible oral health. Your dental professionals in Tampa, FL, are here to answer your questions and clear up any confusion about the wide range of dental treatments available. Two commonly confused treatments are dental cleanings and professional teeth whitening. While both treatments can make you look and feel better, it’s important to understand the differences.

What Is Dental Cleaning?

When you go to your dentist’s office for a dental cleaning, the primary objective is to remove tartar and plaque buildup from your teeth. This preventive treatment helps you avoid tooth decay and gum disease, so it’s integral to your dental hygiene to prevent tooth loss.

Your dental professional recommends that you visit their office twice a year for dental cleanings. The process is simple; your dentist or hygienist will:

  • Examine your mouth for gum disease or other dental issues
  • Take x-rays
  • Remove plaque and tartar from your teeth
  • Polish your teeth
  • Floss your teeth
  • Apply fluoride

What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?

On the other hand, professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment aimed at removing stains from your teeth and improving the aesthetic appearance of your smile. While teeth whitening can work wonders for your self-esteem, it isn’t a necessary part of your oral hygiene.

Professional teeth whitening is a safe, affordable, and effective treatment option if you aren’t happy about the color of your teeth.

If you opt for in-office teeth whitening, all you have to do is sit back and relax. In one visit, your teeth will be visibly whiter.

If you opt for take-home teeth whitening, the process is as follows:

  • You will receive custom-made whitening trays, whitening gel, and desensitizing gel to take home.
  • Your dentist will go over the instructions with you and be available to answer any questions.
  • You will sleep with your whitening trays in your mouth for approximately two weeks.
  • You will follow up with your dentist to discuss the results.

Do You Need a Dental Cleaning or Teeth Whitening in Tampa, FL?

If you need a dentist in Tampa, please consider Carrollwood Village Dental. Our staff is ready to help with all your dental needs. Contact us at (813) 961-2200 today!.

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Lady smiling after teeth whitening in Tampa, FL

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This shouldn't be a deterrent for patients looking for professional whitening. The symptoms are typically mild, and only a portion of patients report significant sensitivity.

For those patients, we have some options to improve their whitening experience. 

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