Should i get my teeth cleaned before whitening
Cleaning before whitening can remove plaque and calculus so gel contacts teeth evenly, but decay and gum disease should be assessed first.
What is the direct answer?
Cleaning before whitening can remove plaque and calculus so gel contacts teeth evenly, but decay and gum disease should be assessed first.
What does this question mean?
Cleaning removes plaque and calculus, while peroxide whitening changes natural tooth colour. Cleaning cannot lighten fillings, crowns or veneers.
What can you do next?
A clinician may scale deposits, polish external stain and examine enamel, gums and restorations before whitening.
When should you seek dental care?
Clean between teeth and brush gently before the visit, but do not whiten over untreated disease.
What should you ask the dentist?
Bleeding gums, toothache, cracks, ulcers, exposed roots or loose restorations should be assessed before whitening.
Frequently asked questions
Could another condition cause this?
Cleaning removes plaque and calculus, while peroxide whitening changes natural tooth colour. Cleaning cannot lighten fillings, crowns or veneers.
What should the dentist check?
Ask whether the colour is stain or intrinsic discolouration and how restorations will appear after whitening.