Dental hygiene and whitening

Cleaning and whitening have different purposes

Professional cleaning removes plaque, tartar and surface staining that cannot all be managed by brushing alone. It supports the health of your teeth and gums. Whitening uses a bleaching product to change the colour of natural teeth. Cleaning may make teeth look brighter, but it is not the same as whitening.

At ProDent in Nysa, a dentist or dental hygienist provides professional cleaning. Before whitening, we check for decay, gum problems and other reasons to postpone or adapt treatment.

What does professional cleaning involve?

The exact combination is selected for your needs. An appointment often takes around an hour, but the amount of deposit and the condition of your gums affect the time required. People with gum disease may need a separate periodontal treatment plan.

How often should you have your teeth cleaned?

Once or twice a year is suitable for many patients, but there is no single schedule for everyone. Gum disease, braces, smoking, diabetes and how effectively you clean at home can change the recommended interval. Your clinician will advise when to return.

Before and after cleaning

Tell us about your medical conditions, medicines, pregnancy and any implanted medical devices. Pregnancy does not automatically rule out preventive dental care. Your clinician will assess any precautions needed.

Teeth or gums may feel sensitive afterwards. Follow the instructions given for any fluoride or other product used, including advice about eating and drinking. Continue daily brushing and interdental cleaning using the technique recommended for you.

Common cleaning questions

Does scaling hurt?

Sensitivity varies, particularly around inflamed gums or exposed roots. Let the clinician know if you are uncomfortable so they can adapt the procedure and discuss pain control where needed.

How much does cleaning cost?

See the hygiene and whitening price list. The appropriate package depends on what your teeth and gums need.

Why do I need cleaning if I brush well?

Brushing cannot remove hardened tartar. Professional cleaning complements your home routine and provides an opportunity to review difficult-to-clean areas.

Teeth whitening options

We offer in-clinic whitening with PrevDent and dentist-supervised whitening using custom trays and Opalescence gels. The dentist assesses the cause of discolouration and discusses which approach is suitable.

For in-clinic treatment, the gums are protected, the whitening product is applied and its action monitored. For home treatment, custom trays hold the prescribed gel against the teeth. Use them only for the duration and frequency instructed by your dentist; more gel or longer wear does not make treatment safer.

What results can you expect?

The amount of colour change varies with your starting shade and the cause of staining. Crowns, veneers and fillings do not whiten like natural enamel, so existing restorations may become a different shade from the surrounding teeth. Discuss this before starting.

Temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can occur. The dentist may recommend adjusting or pausing treatment. Contact the clinic if symptoms are significant or persist.

When should whitening wait?

Whitening is not provided to patients under 18. We postpone elective whitening during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Untreated decay, gum inflammation, severe sensitivity or allergy to a product may also require treatment or a different approach first.

Keeping your smile healthy

Keep up regular brushing, interdental cleaning and check-ups. Follow the instructions for your whitening system rather than extending treatment yourself. Further whitening or maintenance is planned individually; results are not permanent and can change with staining habits and time.

Book a visit or call 570 400 405 to discuss cleaning or whitening. Further information: American Dental Association guidance on whitening.