Plaque and Tartar Removal in Jupiter, FL
Get Your Teeth Squeaky Clean With Our Jupiter Dentist
It’s crucial to visit your dentist twice a year to ensure your smile stays bright and clean. Dentists can access areas in your mouth that are often missed during at-home care and effectively remove hardened tartar and plaque buildup.
Discover the plaque and tartar removal process with our Jupiter, FL, dentist below. To schedule your dental cleaning appointment, call our Jupiter dental practice at (561) 744-0677.
What Is Plaque and Tartar Removal?
Plaque and tartar removal is performed during routine dental cleanings. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If plaque buildup isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar, also known as calculus, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Plaque and hardened tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Only a dental professional can remove tartar from the teeth, and without removal, it can create unwanted problems.
The Benefits of Removing Plaque and Tartar
Removing plaque and tartar offers numerous advantages, such as:
- Preventing tooth decay and cavities
- Averting gum disease
- Minimizing bad breath
- Ensuring teeth remain clean and fresh
- Supporting overall dental health
When Plaque and Tartar Removal Is Necessary
Maintaining good dental health requires regular plaque and tartar removal. While most individuals should schedule dental cleanings twice a year, some may require more frequent visits, including:
- Smokers or tobacco users
- Individuals with braces or other dental devices
- Those with a history of gum disease or cavities
- People experiencing dry mouth
- Individuals with diets high in sugar or carbohydrates
How the Plaque and Tartar Removal Process Works
Removing plaque and tartar is a standard part of routine dental cleanings. Here’s how the process works:
- Examination: Your dentist or dental hygienist will assess your teeth to evaluate the level of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Utilizing a specialized tool, the dentist or hygienist will meticulously remove plaque and scrape tartar from your tooth surfaces. This procedure is known as scaling.
- Polishing: After successfully removing the plaque and tartar, your teeth will be polished using a unique toothpaste to achieve a smooth finish.
- Fluoride Treatment: Lastly, a fluoride treatment may be applied to safeguard against future tooth decay.
The duration of the cleaning session can vary based on the buildup’s severity, but it generally lasts around 30 minutes.
Caring for Your Teeth After Plaque and Tartar Removal
After removing plaque and tartar, it’s crucial to care for your teeth properly to uphold good oral health. Here are some tips for maintaining your teeth post-procedure:
- Brush your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to eliminate any remaining plaque and food particles.
- Use mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
- Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products.
- Limit the consumption of sugary or starchy foods and beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, plaque removal isn’t painful. However, some individuals might experience slight discomfort or sensitivity during the procedure. This occurs because the dental professional is scraping away plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can lead to some sensitivity or unease. If you experience significant pain during the dental cleaning, inform your dentist immediately.
While regular brushing and flossing can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, removing tartar at home is not possible. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that requires removal by a dental professional using specialized tools. However, you can prevent tartar buildup by brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and maintaining a healthy diet.
Yes, there is evidence suggesting that poor oral health, including plaque and tartar buildup, can contribute to other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The bacteria in dental plaque can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation, potentially leading to these and other health concerns. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups.
You might experience some sensitivity or soreness in your gums for a day or two following the procedure. It’s also common to notice some bleeding when brushing or flossing. However, if the bleeding continues or you experience severe pain or swelling, you should contact your dentist.
Our Jupiter Dentist Can Keep Your Smile Clean and Healthy
Eliminating accumulated plaque and hardened tartar is crucial for sustaining optimal oral health. Regular dental cleanings, combined with diligent dental care practices, can help you prevent plaque buildup, combat cavities, and ward off gum disease.
Be sure to see your local dentist at least twice annually and adhere to their guidance for preserving excellent oral health. We’re proud to serve patients in Jupiter, Hobe Sound, Limestone Creek, Tequesta, and the surrounding areas.