Even with regular brushing and flossing, oral health threats like plaque and tartar can still persist, causing issues to our oral health. However, there’s more we can do beyond our daily routine. Professional dental cleanings in Concord can step in to tackle these stubborn culprits effectively. 

Here, we’ll explore why we should be more proactive in addressing these threats and how dental cleanings play an important role in maintaining a healthy smile.  

What is Plaque? 

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that forms on the surface of teeth. It consists of a mixture of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Over time, if not removed, plaque hardens and becomes tartar. 

Plaque develops when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches from food, producing acids. These acids can attack tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities and gum disease. 

What is Tartar? 

Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that develops when plaque is not removed from the teeth. It forms when minerals from saliva combine with plaque, causing it to harden and adhere to the tooth surface. Tartar typically appears as a yellow or brownish deposit along the gumline and between teeth. 

How Tartar Differs from Plaque 

While plaque is a soft, sticky film that can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar is much harder and cannot be removed with standard oral hygiene practices. Tartar provides a rough surface where additional plaque can accumulate, further exacerbating oral health problems. 

Consequences of Untreated Tartar 

Untreated tartar accumulation can lead to a range of oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Tartar buildup irritates the gums, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of gum disease progression. It can also contribute to the formation of dental cavities by providing a conducive environment for bacteria to thrive.  

Why Professional Removal is Necessary 

Ineffectiveness of Home Oral Hygiene Methods 

Despite diligent brushing and flossing at home, it’s challenging to completely remove plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach areas and along the gumline. Professional dental cleanings are necessary to thoroughly remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated with regular oral hygiene practices alone. 

Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings 

Professional dental cleanings in Concord offer several benefits beyond what can be achieved at home. Dental professionals have specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar effectively, reducing the risk of oral health problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular dental cleanings also allow dentists to detect and address any underlying issues early, preventing them from progressing into more serious conditions. 

Here’s what to expect of a dental cleaning:  

• Assessment: Before the cleaning begins, the dental hygienist or dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums.  

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized tools such as scalers and curettes, the dental professional will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, especially along the gum line and in between teeth.  

• Cleaning and Polishing: After the plaque and tartar are removed, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste-like substance and a rotating brush or rubber cup.  

• Evaluation: Your dentist or hygienist evaluates the effectiveness of the cleaning and discusses any concerns with you. They might provide recommendations for improving your oral hygiene or additional treatments if needed.  

Need a Dental Cleaning in Concord? 

For comprehensive care and effective removal of stubborn plaque and tartar, consider scheduling a dental cleaning at Concord Advanced Dentistry. Don’t wait until oral health issues arise—take proactive steps toward a brighter, healthier smile today. Contact us!