Can a Dentist Whiten My Teeth During a Standard Teeth Cleaning?

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Teeth cleaning is often associated with teeth whitening, which is why it can be disappointing to go to the dentist and not emerge with a movie-star grin. Here, we’ll look at why this is and what if you’re looking for professional teeth whitening in Jay, FL.

The Nature of Stains

Stains are more than just plaque and tartar, otherwise known as the substances that the dentist can remove when you visit them for a tooth cleaning. Stains are the result of your teeth absorbing color, whether it’s from wine, coffee, or blueberries.

Depending on how porous your teeth are, these stains can get fairly dark if they’re not quickly addressed. Just keep in mind that teeth whitening can not remove internal staining, meaning a stain that’s from either disease or trauma. In that case, you’ll need to address the root cause of the issue first.

Whitening and You

Teeth whitening may be able to whiten your smile by a shade or two, but only if the stains are caused by plaque and tartar. Because they’re usually not, you won’t see much of a difference. If you want to lighten your teeth by another shade or two, you can look for over-the-counter kits and strips, which can give your smile a much-needed refresh. If you’re looking to drastically change the color of your smile, though, only professional teeth whitening can achieve those kinds of results.

Cosmetic Dentist in Jay, FL

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Jay, consider calling Jim D. Lassiter DMD to learn more about the process. Teeth cleanings are standard before the whitening treatments begin, so you’ll have a chance to evaluate your smile after all the plaque and tartar are gone!

Jim D. Lassister DMD

 What’s the Difference Between Deep Cleanings and Standard Cleanings?

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If you hear the term deep cleaning at a dentist’s office, you might assume it’s similar to a regular cleaning. However, deep cleanings target a different part of the mouth than standard cleanings. Understanding the differences between the two can help you maintain your dental hygiene and schedule the best procedures for you.

Standard Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

With standard cleaning in Jay, FL, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar that’s formed above the gum line. They use specialized instruments to scrape off even the hardest film formed on your teeth. However, plaque and tartar can attack more than just your teeth.

When the bacteria builds up under the gum line and root surfaces, it must be removed with a deep cleaning. A standard cleaning can only go so far, which is why the dentist will sometimes recommend deep cleaning if they need to go deeper and smooth out the surfaces of the root. Deep cleanings are usually done by quadrant, and you may need to schedule multiple appointments to get it done.

Prevention Dentistry in Jay, FL

For some people, bacteria and plaque live largely on the teeth. For others, plaque will quickly make its way into the gumline. The best way to prevent deep cleanings is to brush and floss regularly and to visit your dentist in Jay, FL at least twice a year, though even this may not be able to stave off the need for an occasional deep clean.

If you’re concerned about your teeth and gums, contact the offices of Jim D. Lassiter DMD today to schedule a standard cleaning.