If plaque is not removed through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, also known as dental calculus. The only way to get rid of plaque and tartar is to have them scraped off at a dental cleaning—but you might be tempted to try doing it yourself. In today’s post, our South Charlotte dentist explains why that’s not a good idea.
The Dangers of DIY Plaque Scraping
When you visit your dentist’s office for a tooth cleaning, the dental hygienist uses specialized tools to clean your teeth. One of these tools is a dental scaler, also called a plaque scraper. Hygienists use the plaque scraper’s sharp cutting edges to scale the area beneath the gumline and the surface of the teeth, and may also scale the surfaces of the tooth roots in a process known as root planing.
Although plaque scrapers can be purchased in some stores and online, it’s not a good idea to use them yourself. Because plaque scrapers are sharp, improper use can damage the delicate gum tissue. Trauma to the gum tissue isn’t just painful, it can also causereceding gums, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. The sharp plaque scraper could also cause injuries to your cheeks, tongue, or other soft tissues. Improper use of plaque scrapers can also lead to infections. Tartar can be accidentally pushed under the gumline, and this can lead to gum issues.
Removing Plaque Safely
Plaque scrapers are specialized medical tools, and it takes years of training to learn how to use them safely. Dental hygienists attend college for at least two years, during which time they learn how to use dental scalers and other tools safely.
If you’re concerned about plaque, visit your dentist. Your dentist can examine your mouth to determine if you have plaque, tartar or other dental problems that need to be addressed. If necessary, plaque can be removed safely by a trained and licensed dentist or dental hygienist.
While it’s not a good idea to use a plaque scaler at home, there are things you can do at home to keep your teeth healthyin between dental visits. Floss once daily, and brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Plaque removal is important for good oral health, but it’s not a DIY project. If you’re worried about plaque, be sure to see your dentist and dental hygienist for safe optimal oral healthcare treatment.
Schedule an Appointment with Our South Charlotte Dentist
Park Cedar Dentistry provides general dentist services to South Charlotte and nearby areas. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Emily Snapp or Dr. Summer Suttles, please click here to schedule an appointment.
FAQs
Because plaque scrapers are sharp, improper use can damage the delicate gum tissue. Trauma to the gum tissue isn't just painful, it can also cause receding gums, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. The sharp plaque scraper could also cause injuries to your cheeks, tongue, or other soft tissues.
Can I remove dental plaque myself? ›
Regular brushing and flossing will certainly help, but only a dental professional can remove plaque from all surfaces of your teeth. It might be tempting to try and get rid of plaque yourself, but that can cause more harm than good.
Can you pick off hardened plaque? ›
Tartar is hardened dental plaque. Without proper oral hygiene, tartar can build up on your teeth and lead to gum disease and other oral health issues. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove tartar. You can't remove it with brushing and flossing alone.
Why can't I remove plaque from my teeth? ›
Once plaque gets onto your teeth, you have a limited amount of time to remove it before it hardens. Most plaque hardens within 48 hours of formation, and within several days it will become so hard that it is almost impossible to remove.
How can I remove hardened tartar from my teeth at home? ›
Naturally antibacterial, white vinegar will help to demineralise or soften tartar if used once or twice daily as a mouthwash. Swish a mixture of 2 cups of warm water, 2 teaspoons of white vinegar and a pinch of salt around your mouth for a few minutes. Do this after or between brushing your teeth.
Is it safe to scrape plaque off your own teeth? ›
Although plaque scrapers can be purchased in some stores and online, it's not a good idea to use them yourself. Because plaque scrapers are sharp, improper use can damage the delicate gum tissue. Trauma to the gum tissue isn't just painful, it can also cause receding gums, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth.
How long does it take for baking soda to remove tartar? ›
Removing Tartar with Baking Soda
Leave the baking soda on for at least fifteen minutes before rinsing. While not exactly tasty, baking soda can neutralize harmful acids from things like sodas and foods while also killing bacteria and whitening teeth naturally.
What dissolves calcified plaque? ›
Vitamin D3 (a cholecalciferol) is a vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium. This vitamin works alongside Vitamin K2 to help pull calcium deposits from your arteries. Oily fish is the best source of Vitamin D3, including rainbow trout, sockeye salmon, and sardines.
What dissolves oral plaque? ›
White vinegar. The acetic acid in white vinegar has antibacterial properties and promotes demineralization of tooth enamel, making it effective in removing tartar and plaque. Add half a teaspoon of salt to half a cup of water and add two teaspoons of white vinegar to it. Stir it well and gargle the mixture twice a day.
Is it bad if tartar falls off? ›
Tartar chipping off will leave a sharp spot behind on the tooth inside your mouth. You may think that breaking off the leftover calculus-tartar by yourself is a good option, but it can seriously damage gum tissues and teeth.
When compared with water, LISTERINE® Antiseptic reduced dental plaque by 22.2% and gingivitis by 28.2% at 6 months. When compared with vehicle, LISTERINE® Antiseptic reduced dental plaque by 20.8% and gingivitis by 27.7% at 6 months, respectively.
How to clean your own teeth like a hygienist? ›
Our guidance for you to clean your own teeth like a hygienist, is to adopt this committed mindset.
- Brush your teeth twice a day. ...
- Consider the benefits of an electric toothbrush. ...
- Change your brushes regularly – both manual and electric. ...
- Use dental floss or a set of interdental brushes. ...
- Choose a fluoride toothpaste.
Can hardened plaque fall off? If dental plaque turns into tartar, it's very difficult to remove. But sometimes little bits of tartar can break off, especially if you brush too hard. Everyone gets dental plaque.
What softens tartar on teeth? ›
Brushing teeth with Baking Soda
Baking soda can effectively remove the plaque without damaging the outer covering of teeth— enamel. Baking soda is safe to use with no apparent side effects. Toothpaste containing baking soda is more potent against plaque than traditional toothpaste.
Does hydrogen peroxide dissolve tartar? ›
Using hydrogen peroxide in caring for teeth and gums eliminates harmful bacteria. This cuts down the formation of plaque and tartar. This powerful antiseptic can deteriorate the bacteria in plaque. Some dentists use hydrogen peroxide as a more efficient way to remove the plaque and tartar from teeth.
Does apple cider vinegar dissolve tartar? ›
Can You Dissolve Tartar With Vinegar? Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for whitening teeth and removal of tartar deposits. While it is effective in chemically removing plaque from the teeth, apple cider vinegar can damage your teeth and gums.
Can plaque be removed on its own? ›
Making plaque disappear is not possible, but with lifestyle changes and medication they can shrink and stabilize.
Can you scrape out plaque? ›
Atherectomy is a peripheral intervention that opens arteries blocked by plaque. During atherectomy, your provider uses a catheter (a long, narrow tube) with a sharp blade, laser or rotating device on the end to scrape away, dissolve or break up plaque without making a large incision.
Will removing tartar loosen teeth? ›
Once that buildup is removed, in comparison, your teeth feel loose. But that doesn't make them likely to fall out! In spite of that increased feeling of looseness, removing the plaque and tartar buildup helps your gums and roots to reattach to your teeth, creating better oral health for you!
