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Keep Your Smile Healthy and Bright With Our North East Dentist
Looking for a reliable way to maintain a healthy smile? At our North East, PA dental practice, we specialize in plaque and tartar removal to help you achieve optimal oral health. Regular dental cleanings are essential for preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications caused by plaque buildup.
Let’s explore how our North East dentist and dental team can help you keep your teeth squeaky clean and your smile radiant.
What Is Plaque and Tartar?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on your teeth after eating or drinking. When plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (also called dental calculus).
Unlike plaque, tartar can’t be removed at home—only a dental professional can safely eliminate it. Left untreated, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
Why Is Plaque and Tartar Removal Important?
Regular plaque and tartar removal is a cornerstone of good oral hygiene. Here’s why it matters:
- Prevents Tooth Decay and Cavities: Plaque contains bacteria that produce acids, eroding tooth enamel and causing cavities.
- Reduces Risk of Gum Disease: Tartar buildup irritates gums, leading to swollen gums, bleeding gums, and even periodontal disease.
- Improves Overall Health: Poor oral hygiene has been linked to systemic health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- Keeps Your Smile Bright: Removing plaque and tartar helps prevent stains and keeps your teeth looking their best.
When Is Plaque and Tartar Removal Necessary?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist regularly for professional dental cleanings—typically twice a year. However, some individuals may need more frequent cleanings, including:
- Smokers or tobacco users
- People with braces or dental appliances
- Those with a history of gum disease or cavities
- Individuals with dry mouth or high-sugar diets
Why Choose Our North East, PA Dental Practice?
At our dental practice, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or need help managing tartar buildup, our team is here to provide personalized care.
Contact North East Dental Arts at (814) 725-4700 to schedule your dental cleaning appointment. We proudly serve patients in North East, Erie, Ripley, Findley Lake, and surrounding areas.
How Does the Plaque and Tartar Removal Process Work?
At our North East, PA dental office, we follow a thorough, step-by-step process to ensure your teeth are clean and healthy:
- Examination: Your dentist or dental hygienist will assess your teeth and gums for plaque buildup, tartar, and signs of gum disease.
- Scaling: Using specialized tools, we’ll carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas like chewing surfaces and below the gumline.
- Polishing: After scaling, we’ll polish your teeth to remove surface stains and create a smooth, plaque-resistant surface.
- Fluoride Treatment: To strengthen your enamel and protect against future decay, we may apply a fluoride treatment.
The entire process typically takes about 30 minutes, leaving you with a fresh, clean smile.
Caring for Your Teeth After Plaque and Tartar Removal
To maintain the results of your dental cleaning, follow these tips for good oral hygiene:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food debris.
- Floss Daily: Dental floss helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: An ADA-approved mouthwash can kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: Foods like bread, pasta, and soft drinks can increase plaque buildup.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: This stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away bacteria.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule dental cleanings every six months to prevent tartar buildup and maintain oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is plaque removal painful?
No, plaque removal is generally painless. However, some patients may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, especially if there’s significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation.
Can I remove tartar at home?
No, tartar can only be removed by a dental professional. Brushing and flossing at home can prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, but once it forms, specialized tools are required.
Can plaque and tartar cause other health problems?
Yes, research shows that poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Regular dental cleanings and daily brushing and flossing can reduce these risks.
What should I expect after a cleaning?
It’s normal to experience slight gum sensitivity or minor bleeding for a day or two. If symptoms persist, contact your dentist.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Don’t let plaque and tartar compromise your oral health. Schedule your next dental cleaning with us at (814) 725-4700 and experience the benefits of professional plaque and tartar removal. Remember, good oral hygiene starts with regular dental visits and daily care.
We proudly serve patients in North East, Erie, Ripley, Findley Lake, and surrounding areas. Let’s work together to keep your smile clean, healthy, and beautiful!