Can I Scrape Plaque off My Teeth?
If dental plaque is not removed through brushing and flossing every day, it hardens into tartar, also called dental calculus. The only way to get rid of the stubborn plaque and tartar is to have it scraped off at a dental cleaning, but you might be tempted to try it yourself. The following suggestions explains why that is not such a good idea.
The Dangers of DIY Plaque Scraping
When you visit your dentist’s office for an exam and teeth cleaning, the dental hygienist uses specialized hand tools to clean your teeth. One of these small tools is a dental scaler, also called a plaque scraper. Your hygienist will use the plaque scraper’s sharp cutting edges to scrape and scale the area around and beneath the gumline and the entire surface of each tooth. Deeper scaling below the surface of the is a process known as root planing.
Although a plaque scraper can be purchased easily in a store or online, it is not a good idea to use them yourself. Because these plaque scrapers are quite sharp, improper use can easily damage your delicate gum tissue. Trauma to your gum tissue is more than just painful, it can also result in receding gums, now exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. The sharp plaque scraper can also easily cause injuries to your cheeks, your tongue, or other soft tissues. The improper use of a plaque scraper can also lead to an infection. Or you could accidently push tartar under the gumline, resulting in more gum issues.
Removing Plaque Safely
Plaque scrapers are extremely specialized dental tools, and it takes significant training to learn how to use them safely. Dental hygienists attend college for two years, during which time they learn how to use the tools of their trade.
If you are concerned about plaque buildup, visit your dentist. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine if you have plaque, tartar or even other dental problems that need to be addressed. If deemed necessary, plaque can be removed safely and quickly by your dentist or hygienist.
While it is not a good idea to use a plaque scaler yourself, there are things you should do at home to keep your teeth healthy in between your dental checkups. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss at least once daily.
Plaque removal is imperative for good oral health, but it is not a Do-It-Yourself project. If you are concerned about plaque, make an appointment with your dentist and dental hygienist for safe optimal oral healthcare treatment.
Preventing Plaque is the Correct Approach
Dental plaque is a frequent problem with an amazingly easy solution, simply prevent it from forming with daily hygiene and regular dental checkups. You may also use antiseptic mouthwashes to kill the bacteria that cause plaque. If you let a film of plaque remain on your teeth too long, it will harden and turn into tartar. You should have an exam and your teeth cleaned at least twice a year. Your dentist and hygienist can give you recommendations how to reduce plaque and protect your oral health.