Tartar Cleaning

Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened and mineralized form of dental plaque that adheres to the surfaces of teeth. Tartar cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing, and its presence can contribute to various oral health issues, including gum disease and tooth decay. Professional dental cleaning, often referred to as tartar cleaning or dental scaling, is a procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove tartar and maintain oral health. Here’s an overview of tartar cleaning:

1. Dental Examination:

• Before tartar cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will conduct a thorough dental examination. This may include X-rays to assess the overall oral health and identify areas with tartar buildup.

2. Scaling:

• Dental scaling is the process of removing tartar from the tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline. Specialized instruments, such as ultrasonic scalers or hand scalers, are used to carefully remove the hardened deposits.

3. Root Planing:

• Root planing is often performed in conjunction with scaling, especially if there is tartar below the gumline. This process involves smoothing the root surfaces to discourage the accumulation of bacteria and tartar.

4. Polishing:

• After scaling and root planing, the dentist or dental hygienist may polish the teeth using a gritty toothpaste and a high-powered electric brush. This helps remove surface stains and leaves the teeth smooth, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.

5. Fluoride Treatment:

• In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied after tartar cleaning. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can provide additional protection against tooth decay.

6. Oral Hygiene Education:

• As part of the cleaning appointment, the dental professional may offer guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and any specific recommendations for the patient’s oral health needs.

7. Follow-Up Recommendations:

• Based on the assessment during the cleaning, the dentist may provide recommendations for follow-up appointments, such as regular dental check-ups and cleanings, or any additional treatments or interventions needed.

Benefits of Tartar Cleaning:

• Prevention of Gum Disease: Tartar removal helps prevent and treat gum disease by eliminating the source of bacterial irritation.
• Cavity Prevention: Removing tartar reduces the risk of tooth decay by eliminating areas where bacteria can thrive.
• Fresh Breath: Tartar cleaning contributes to fresher breath by removing bacteria and debris that can cause bad breath.

It’s important to note that tartar cleaning is a preventive and therapeutic procedure that supports overall oral health. Regular professional cleanings, combined with consistent at-home oral hygiene practices, are essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing dental issues. The frequency of professional cleanings may vary based on individual oral health needs and the presence of risk factors.

Is tartar cleaning painful?

Tartar cleaning, also known as dental scaling, is generally not a painful procedure. However, the experience may vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during or after the cleaning. Here are some factors to consider regarding the potential discomfort associated with tartar cleaning:

1. Local Anesthesia:

   • For most routine tartar cleanings, local anesthesia is not necessary, as the procedure typically involves the removal of tartar from the tooth surfaces using specialized instruments. Local anesthesia is more commonly used for deep cleanings, such as scaling and root planing, especially when the tartar is below the gumline.

2. Mild Discomfort or Sensitivity:

   • During tartar cleaning, patients may feel mild discomfort or sensitivity, particularly if there is significant tartar buildup or if the gums are inflamed. The sensation is often described as pressure rather than pain.

3. Gum Sensitivity:

   • Individuals with sensitive gums may be more prone to experiencing mild discomfort during the cleaning. The use of topical numbing gels or desensitizing agents may be employed to enhance comfort.

4. Post-Cleaning Sensitivity:

   • After the tartar cleaning, some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures. This sensitivity usually subsides within a short period.

5. Communication with the Dental Professional:

   • It’s essential to communicate openly with the dental professional performing the cleaning. If you experience any discomfort or if you have concerns, inform them immediately. They can adjust their approach, provide additional measures for comfort, or, if necessary, consider local anesthesia.

6. Post-Cleaning Instructions:

   • Following the tartar cleaning, the dental professional may provide post-cleaning instructions, including recommendations for managing any potential sensitivity. This may include using desensitizing toothpaste or avoiding extremely hot or cold foods and drinks for a short time.

It’s important to note that while the cleaning itself may cause some temporary discomfort or sensitivity, the long-term benefits of tartar removal far outweigh any short-term discomfort. Regular professional cleanings, combined with consistent at-home oral hygiene practices, contribute to maintaining optimal oral health and preventing more significant dental issues.

If you have concerns about discomfort during tartar cleaning or if you have a history of dental anxiety, discuss your concerns with your dentist or dental hygienist. They can work with you to ensure your comfort and address any specific needs you may have during the cleaning process.

Does toothpaste dissolve tartar?

Toothpaste alone is generally not effective in dissolving tartar. Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened and mineralized form of dental plaque that cannot be easily removed by regular brushing with toothpaste. Once plaque, a soft and sticky film of bacteria, mixes with minerals in saliva, it hardens into tartar, which adheres firmly to the teeth.

While toothpaste is effective in removing plaque, it is not designed to break down or dissolve tartar. The mechanical action of brushing with toothpaste helps remove plaque from the tooth surfaces, preventing its accumulation and minimizing the formation of new tartar. However, once tartar has developed, professional dental cleaning is typically required to remove it.

To effectively manage tartar and prevent its formation, it’s important to:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

   • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and help prevent tartar buildup.

2. Floss Regularly:

   • Flossing helps remove plaque and debris between teeth and along the gumline, areas that are prone to tartar formation.

3. Use Tartar-Control Toothpaste:

   • Some toothpaste formulations include ingredients specifically designed to help control tartar. These toothpaste products may contain pyrophosphates or other substances that can slow down the mineralization process, but they do not dissolve existing tartar.

4. Professional Dental Cleanings:

   • Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for removing tartar. Dental hygienists use specialized instruments to scale and remove tartar from tooth surfaces.

5. Consider Tartar-Control Mouthwash:

   • Some mouthwashes may contain ingredients to help control tartar formation. These mouthwashes are typically used as part of an overall oral hygiene routine and are not a substitute for professional cleanings.

If you notice tartar buildup or have concerns about your oral health, it’s important to schedule regular dental check-ups. During these appointments, your dentist or dental hygienist can assess the condition of your teeth, perform professional cleanings, and provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home. Regular preventive care is key to managing tartar and promoting optimal oral health.