Importance Of Regular Teeth Cleaning
While good oral hygiene is key to preventing cavities and gum disease, brushing and flossing alone are not enough to remove plaque and tartar buildup completely. During a routine tooth cleaning, your dentist will use special tools and techniques to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums — especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Understanding Dental Plaque And Tartar
Dental plaque is a film of bacteria, sugary or starchy food debris, and saliva that forms and sticks to teeth throughout the day. While everyone gets plaque, it can become problematic if you do not remove it with daily brushing and flossing. If it stays on the teeth, it turns into a hard buildup called tartar.
Tartar Removal: Why It’s Essential
Tartar cannot be removed at home with a toothbrush or floss. A skilled dentist or dental hygienist will need to use dental tools, such as a scaler and curette, to gently remove this buildup from the teeth and under the gum line.
If you don’t see your dentist regularly to remove plaque, it can cause several dental issues, including:
- Tooth decay
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Tooth enamel erosion
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Teeth staining
