Is it Difficult to Remove Tartar Buildup from Your Teeth?

Tartar buildup happens. It’s how you take care of it that matters. Unfortunately you cannot remove it yourself. Tartar is basically a mineral deposit that has hardened on your teeth. The only way to remove tartar buildup is by having a professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist. They have special tools that are designed to remove tartar safely. Trying to remove it yourself will cause you frustration. You can also damage your gum tissue if you aren’t careful.

Scaling is the procedure that involves removing tartar. Your hygienist or dentist will take special hand instruments that have sharp edges to remove tartar from your teeth. This is the safest way and it will be easier for you to keep your teeth cleaner after a professional cleaning. This is routine for a professional and you should not worry about the scaling hurting your gums and teeth.

Your hygienist also has an electric instrument that she will use to remove tartar that is found under the gums and hard to remove with a hand instrument. This instrument, called an ultrasonic will spray water and vibrate the tartar off of the teeth. It does make a loud screeching sound, but will make the procedure of removing tartar a little more tolerable to some. Some models have two reservoirs that can hold water and an antimicrobial mouth rinse. The mouth rinse can either be an over the counter rinse or a prescription strength mouth rinse. The antimicrobial mouth rinse helps reduce the bacteria in the mouth. For the patients that have periodontal disease this instrument is great at removing tartar from beneath the gum tissue.

Now, after you have seen your hygienist for a proper cleaning you can prevent tartar build up at home. Investing a little money and time in the bathroom will save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. An electric toothbrush is ideal for someone who is having a hard time keeping the plaque off their teeth. These toothbrushes are designed to vibrate or simulate the circular motions for proper brushing. These also have built in timers that time you for exactly two minutes so that you are not over brushing or under brushing. Water piks are great tools that help with flossing. Flossing is hard if you aren’t used to doing it. They also have special tips designed for periodontal disease, orthodontic needs, tongue cleaners and even regular tips for the everyday user.

Even though you can’t remove tartar yourself you can prevent it at home. Prevention is the key to a long lasting smile and long lasting health. Regular visits to your dentist will help keep your tartar in check and keep your teeth healthy.

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