Teeth whitening vs Professional cleaning: which is right for you?
Cleaning removes what sits on the tooth; whitening changes the shade of the tooth itself.
How Teeth whitening works
In-chair whitening uses high-concentration peroxide gel, often light-activated, to lift the enamel shade several tones in about an hour. Results last 1–3 years depending on coffee, tea and smoking.
How Professional cleaning works
Scaling and polishing removes plaque, tartar and surface stains — a health treatment first, with a visible cosmetic side effect. Dentists recommend it every 6–12 months regardless of whitening plans.
Which to choose
Start with a cleaning: it is cheaper, medically useful and often brightens enough on its own. Whiten afterwards if you still want a lighter shade — never the other way round.
Prices abroad
Accredited clinics abroad typically price both options 50–70% below Western European and UK rates, all-inclusive. Compare written quotes for both on GetClinic and discuss suitability in a free video consultation before booking either.