Plaque and Tartar Removal in Petoskey, MI
Achieve a Sparkling Smile with Our Petoskey, MI Dentist
Scheduling a visit to your dentist twice yearly for professional tooth cleaning is crucial for maintaining a pristine and radiant smile. Dentists can access areas in your mouth that are often overlooked during home care, effectively removing hardened tartar and plaque buildup.
Discover the plaque and tartar removal process with our Petoskey, MI dentist by calling (231) 347-2188.
Understanding Plaque and Tartar Removal
Plaque and tartar removal is a key component of routine dental cleanings. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth after eating or drinking. If not addressed, plaque buildup hardens into tartar, also called calculus, which can only be eliminated by a dental professional. Accumulated plaque and hardened tartar can result in tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health concerns.
Only a dental professional can effectively remove tartar from teeth, and neglecting this can lead to unwanted issues.
Advantages of Removing Plaque and Tartar
The removal of plaque and tartar offers numerous advantages, such as:
- Prevents tooth decay and cavities
- Prevents gum disease
- Reduces bad breath
- Keeps teeth looking and feeling clean
- Maintains overall dental health
When Is Plaque and Tartar Removal Necessary?
Plaque and tartar removal is vital for anyone aiming to sustain good dental health. While most individuals require biannual dental cleanings, certain people may need them more frequently, including:
- Smokers or tobacco users
- Individuals with braces or dental appliances
- Those with a history of gum disease or cavities
- People experiencing dry mouth
- Individuals with a diet rich in sugar or carbohydrates
The Plaque and Tartar Removal Process
Removing plaque and tartar is typically part of routine dental cleanings. The process includes:
- Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist assesses your teeth to determine the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Using specialized tools, the dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and scrapes tartar from your teeth’s surfaces. This procedure is known as scaling.
- Polishing: After removing tooth plaque and tartar, the dentist or dental hygienist polishes your teeth using special toothpaste.
- Fluoride Treatment: A fluoride treatment may be applied to protect against future tooth decay.
The duration of the cleaning procedure varies based on the buildup on your teeth, typically taking around 30 minutes.
Post-Removal Dental Care
Properly caring for your teeth after plaque and tartar removal is essential for maintaining good oral health. Consider these tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove any remaining plaque and food particles.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
- Limit your intake of sugary or starchy foods and drinks.
