Can Regular Teeth Cleanings Help Whiten my Teeth?

Regular teeth cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral health, but can they also make your teeth whiter and brighter?

What effect do regular cleanings have overall?

Regular cleanings can have an important positive effect on many aspects of your oral health as well as your overall health. They can help do the following:

• Prevent cavities - By removing the buildup of plaque, an acidic substance that eats away at your tooth enamel, regular cleanings can help prevent cavities.
• Prevent gum disease and tooth loss - Built-up plaque and tartar can cause gum disease, which can destroy the bone and tissue that help keep your teeth in place. This can cause teeth to loosen and even fall out. Regular teeth cleanings can help remove the plaque and tartar that cause this problem long before it progresses to tooth loss.
• Improve your overall health - Your oral health is connected to your overall health, since studies have linked dental issues to an increased risk of developing diseases like heart disease or stroke. In addition, your dentist can spot early signs of many medical conditions during a routine exam and cleaning. These include diabetes, osteoporosis, and nighttime reflux. Serious mouth issues such as oral cancer can also be spotted during a cleaning and exam.

Can regular teeth cleanings help whiten your teeth?

In addition to offering many health benefits, regular teeth cleanings can help whiten your teeth and improve the appearance of your smile.

As your dental hygienist scrapes your teeth to remove tartar, the process is also effective at removing stains caused by tobacco and eating and drinking certain foods, including candy, coffee, and wine. A dental cleaning also helps smooth away fine cracks in your tooth enamel where darkly or brightly colored substances can get trapped.

Are there any other regular routines you can do at home to help keep your teeth white?

Good at-home dental care can also help keep your teeth white. The following should be a part of your regular routine:

• Avoid foods and beverages that cause stains - Try to avoid foods and beverages that cause stains, such as candy, tea, coffee, soda, and red and white wine. Foods that are high in acid can also cause stains. If you do consume these, try to brush your teeth or at least rinse your mouth with water afterward if you’re not able to brush.
• Brushing and flossing regularly - Brushing should be done twice a day (for at least 2 minutes at a time) and flossing once a day. Using mouthwash after brushing is also recommended.
• Use a straw - If you use a straw when you drink beverages, most of it will bypass your teeth and instead be directed toward the roof of your mouth.

What are some other ways to whiten your teeth?

A dentist can professionally whiten your teeth using a variety of methods. He or she can recommend the one that’s most appropriate for your needs, and with proper oral care, you can expect the results of the treatment to be long-lasting.

If you’re interested in getting your teeth cleaned or would like to find out more about teeth whitening, make an appointment with Dental365 in NY, or stop by one of our locations. We’re open seven days a week, with extended weekday hours, making it convenient for you to receive the top-level dental care you need.