Dental cleaning is gradually gaining popularity domestically. Some seek it for surface cleaning, others to "follow the trend," and many mistakenly believe it solely whitens teeth—though the reality differs entirely. So, does dental cleaning truly whiten teeth?
In developed nations, regular dental cleanings have become routine.In our country, teeth cleaning is also gradually gaining popularity. Regarding its purpose, many believe it can whiten teeth. Teeth cleaning is not merely a cosmetic process; it is also an effective form of dental care.
Eating causes various stains on our teeth, and dental plaque is also a major cause of tooth discoloration.
Teeth Cleaning for Health
Also known as supragingival scaling or gingival cleaning, teeth cleaning addresses the numerous bacteria in our mouths. These bacteria adhere to tooth surfaces via food debris, accumulating and thickening over time to form plaque and tartar.These plaque and calculus deposits are prone to staining, altering tooth color. If not removed promptly, their prolonged accumulation on tooth surfaces can damage gums, leading to gingivitis. Thus, teeth cleaning is not merely a whitening process but a crucial preventive measure against dental diseases.
Scaling Does Not Whiten Teeth
Scaling is best performed every six months to a year. For intrinsic tooth discoloration, scaling alone is not an effective treatment. This requires professional teeth whitening techniques. Low-temperature whitening methods are used to avoid damaging the dental nerves during the procedure.
Polishing is essential after scaling
The core purpose of scaling is to thoroughly remove accumulated plaque and mineralized tartar ("dirt") around teeth. The most common method is ultrasonic scaling, which uses vibrating instruments to break down tartar.
Consequently, the treated tooth surface becomes relatively rough. Compared to before scaling, people often notice a slightly rough texture on the tooth surface, unlike its previous smoothness.