A radiant smile not only enhances your appearance but also boosts your self-confidence. Two of the most common procedures people turn to for better dental aesthetics and hygiene are teeth cleaning and teeth whitening. However, it’s important to note that these two treatments serve entirely different purposes. Knowing the difference between teeth cleaning and whitening in Abu Dhabi can help you choose the right service for your dental goals and overall health.
What Is Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning, also known as professional dental cleaning, is a preventive treatment performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. The main goal is to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains, thereby maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular cleanings are recommended twice a year for individuals of all ages to ensure optimal oral health.
How the Teeth Cleaning Procedure Works
Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens during a teeth cleaning session in Abu Dhabi:
- Initial Examination:
- The dentist or hygienist begins by assessing your teeth and gums using a small mirror and dental instruments. This helps identify early signs of cavities, gum inflammation, or other dental issues, guiding the cleaning process.
- Scaling:
- Using manual tools or an ultrasonic scaler, the specialist removes hardened plaque and tartar from the tooth surface, especially along the gum line and between teeth. This step is essential as tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing alone.
- Polishing:
- After scaling, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste and a rotary polishing tool. This step helps eliminate minor stains and smoothens tooth surfaces to reduce future plaque buildup.
- Flossing and Rinsing:
- The dentist will thoroughly floss your teeth to clear any remaining debris and may recommend a fluoride rinse to strengthen enamel and help protect against decay.
- Fluoride Treatment (Optional):
- In some cases, a fluoride application is done after cleaning, especially for patients at higher risk of cavities—such as children or adults with weakened enamel.
Key Differences Between Teeth Cleaning and Whitening
While both treatments improve the look of your smile, teeth cleaning is primarily focused on oral health, while teeth whitening is purely cosmetic. Whitening involves the application of bleaching agents to brighten your teeth by several shades, often provided by clinics offering the most affordable teeth whitening in Abu Dhabi.
Teeth cleaning should always precede whitening for the best results, as clean teeth respond better to whitening treatments.
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