Achieve a Cleaner, Healthier Smile With Our Denton Dentists
Regular dental cleanings are a cornerstone of good oral hygiene. Our dentists in Denton, TX, help you maintain healthy teeth and gums by effectively removing plaque and hardened tartar (dental calculus) during professional cleanings. These visits are vital for keeping your smile fresh and preventing oral health issues like gum disease and tooth decay.
Learn more about how our plaque and tartar removal services can transform your oral health and keep your smile shining.
What Is Plaque and Tartar Removal?
Plaque and tartar removal is a crucial step in routine dental cleanings. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which clings to the gum line and tooth enamel. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing—it requires the expertise of a dental professional.
Left untreated, tartar buildup can lead to problems such as:
- Gum disease (from mild gingivitis to severe periodontal disease)
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Tooth sensitivity and enamel erosion
- Persistent bad breath
Our Denton dentists are equipped with specialized dental tools to remove tartar safely and effectively.
The Benefits of Removing Plaque and Tartar
The benefits of plaque and tartar removal go beyond a brighter smile. It helps:
- Prevent gum disease: Protect your gum line from inflammation, bleeding gums, and swelling.
- Prevent cavities: Keep tooth enamel strong and healthy.
- Reduce bad breath: Eliminate bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
- Maintain overall dental health: Prevent dental problems that can lead to tooth loss.
Who Needs Plaque and Tartar Removal?
While everyone benefits from regular dental cleanings, certain individuals may need more frequent care to prevent tartar buildup, including:
- Smokers or tobacco users
- People with braces or dental appliances
- Individuals prone to dry mouth or consuming sugary and starchy foods
- Patients with a history of gum disease or dental cavities
Our dentists can customize a cleaning schedule to suit your needs and help you practice good oral hygiene at home.
How the Plaque and Tartar Removal Process Works
Here’s what to expect during a professional cleaning at our Denton office:
- Examination: A dental professional examines your teeth and gums to assess plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Using specialized tools, your dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and scrapes away hardened tartar. This step focuses on areas around the gum line and between teeth.
- Polishing: Your teeth are polished with gritty toothpaste to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth.
- Fluoride Treatment: A fluoride application strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay.
This process, typically lasting 30–45 minutes, ensures your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and protected.
Caring for Your Teeth After Plaque and Tartar Removal
Maintaining your dental health after professional cleanings is essential to prevent future buildup. Here’s how:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid sugary and starchy foods that contribute to plaque formation.
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups and cleanings.
For extra care, consider using an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque than manual brushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients find the procedure painless. Mild discomfort or sensitivity may occur, especially if there’s a significant buildup. Let your dentist know if you experience discomfort during the cleaning.
No, only a dental professional can remove hardened plaque and tartar. However, brushing, flossing, and using fluoride toothpaste can prevent its formation.
Yes, bacteria from untreated dental plaque can enter your bloodstream, potentially contributing to systemic health problems like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
After your plaque and tartar removal procedure, you may experience slight gum sensitivity or soreness, which usually subsides within a day or two. If you notice persistent bleeding or swelling, contact your dentist.
Visit Our Denton Dental Office for Plaque and Tartar Removal
Protect your smile by staying ahead of plaque and tartar buildup. Our experienced dental team is here to help you maintain good dental hygiene and achieve a healthy, radiant smile.
Call us today at (940) 566-4888 to schedule your dental cleaning. We proudly serve Denton and surrounding communities, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX.