Dental plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on teeth and gums and contains bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar or calculus, which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. Here’s how dentists remove hardened plaque:
Scaling
Scaling is the process of removing tartar and plaque from the surface of teeth and below the gumline using specialized dental tools. The dentist or dental hygienist will use a scaler to scrape off the tartar buildup from the teeth, paying close attention to the areas between the teeth and around the gumline. Scaling may be done using hand-held instruments or an ultrasonic scaler, which uses high-frequency vibrations to loosen and remove the tartar.
Planing
After scaling, the dentist or dental hygienist may perform planing, which involves smoothing the surface of the teeth to prevent future tartar buildup. Planing is done using a specialized tool that scrapes away rough spots on the tooth’s root surface.
Polishing
Once the tartar and plaque have been removed, the dentist or dental hygienist will polish the teeth to remove any remaining stains and to smooth the tooth surfaces. Polishing is done using a small rubber cup attached to a handpiece that spins a polishing paste onto the teeth.
Fluoride Treatment
Finally, the dentist or dental hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen the teeth and prevent future decay. The fluoride treatment may be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish and is left on the teeth for a few minutes before being rinsed away.
Conclusion
Dentists and dental hygienists are trained professionals who use specialized tools and techniques to remove hardened plaque and tartar from teeth and gums. Scaling, planing, polishing, and fluoride treatment are all important steps in maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing tooth decay and gum disease. If you have tartar buildup on your teeth, it’s important to see a dentist or dental hygienist for professional cleaning to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
