Achieve a Radiant, Healthy Smile With High-Quality Dental Care
Maintaining a clean, healthy smile is easier with professional dental cleanings. At our Farmington, CT, dental practice, we specialize in removing plaque and tartar, protecting your teeth and gums from potential issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Call us at (860) 470-3660 to schedule your next cleaning and experience the benefits of a brighter, healthier smile with our Farmington dentist.
What Are Plaque and Tartar?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when food particles and bacteria mix. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar (also called dental calculus), which clings to your teeth and along the gum line, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Unlike plaque, tartar can’t be removed with regular brushing and flossing—it requires professional care.
Left untreated, tartar buildup can lead to:
- Cavities and weakened tooth enamel
- Gum infections and bleeding gums
- Advanced issues like periodontal disease or tooth loss
Why Is Plaque and Tartar Removal Important?
Routine cleanings play a vital role in maintaining your oral and overall health. Removing plaque and tartar offers benefits such as:
- Preventing gum disease and tooth sensitivity
- Reducing bad breath caused by plaque-causing bacteria
- Supporting healthy teeth and gums
- Protecting against long-term health risks like heart disease and diabetes
How Does the Plaque and Tartar Removal Process Work?
The process of professional plaque and tartar removal includes:
- Examination: A dentist or dental hygienist evaluates your teeth and gums for signs of plaque buildup or severe gum disease.
- Scaling: Using specialized tools, the hygienist removes hardened plaque and tartar on your teeth, including below the gum line.
- Polishing: Your teeth are polished with fluoride toothpaste to smooth the surface and prevent more plaque from adhering.
- Fluoride Treatment: To protect against tooth decay, fluoride is often applied for added defense.
This procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the extent of buildup.
Who Needs More Frequent Dental Cleanings?
While the American Dental Association recommends biannual visits, some patients may require more frequent care, such as those who:
- Smoke or use chewing tobacco
- Have a history of periodontal disease
- Experience dry mouth (a risk factor for tartar formation)
- Consume a diet high in sugary foods or starchy foods
- Wear braces or other dental appliances
Tips for Preventing Plaque and Tartar Between Cleanings
Practicing good oral hygiene daily can help prevent tartar from forming:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove food particles from hard-to-reach areas.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid sugary and starchy foods that fuel plaque formation.
- Stay hydrated to reduce the risk of dry mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most patients, the plaque and tartar removal process is painless. Some may feel slight sensitivity during scaling, particularly near the gums, but this discomfort is temporary.
While at-home care like brushing and flossing is crucial, tartar can only be removed by a dental professional using specialized tools. Regular dental visits prevent the need for more intensive treatments later.
Research links oral health to systemic health. Bacteria from dental plaque can enter the bloodstream, potentially causing inflammation associated with conditions like heart disease.
Mild gum sensitivity or bleeding is normal after a deep cleaning. These symptoms usually subside quickly. Follow your dentist’s aftercare recommendations for the best results.
Our Farmington Dentist Can Keep Your Smile Clean and Healthy
Maintaining good oral health is essential, and removing built-up plaque and hardened tartar is a key component in achieving this. Regular teeth cleanings and proper at-home dental care can prevent plaque buildup, fight cavities, and prevent gum disease.
We proudly serve patients in Farmington, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, Newington, and surrounding areas. Remember to visit our local dentist at least twice a year and follow their recommendations for maintaining good oral health.