Throughout the day, every food consumed can cause acidic reactions in the mouth and leave residues on the teeth, leading to the formation of bacterial plaque. Regular brushing helps remove this plaque, neutralizes the acidic pH in the mouth, and clears away food particles left on the teeth. Without consistent brushing and flossing, bacterial plaque can persist, eventually leading to tooth decay that may damage the tooth enamel.

Over time, some of this plaque hardens and forms dental calculus, which cannot be removed by regular brushing. This hardened buildup, also known as tartar, requires professional cleaning. Dentists use specialized tools to remove these yellow or brown deposits from the teeth.

How Is Tartar Cleaning Done?

For patients suitable for tartar removal, various tools are used to eliminate tartar and plaque from the tooth surface. These tools effectively remove the buildup without harming the tooth enamel, leaving the teeth smooth and clean. If necessary, whitening and polishing treatments can also be applied after the procedure. Tartar removal is crucial for preventing issues like gingivitis, gum recession, and even tooth loss. Even with proper oral care, minerals in food and saliva can lead to the reformation of tartar within 6 to 12 months. The first step in the tartar removal process usually involves ultrasonic devices. These use vibrations to break up the tartar. Once the larger deposits are dislodged, they are rinsed away with water. Next, smaller tartar deposits are removed using fine instruments, ensuring that even the hard-to-reach areas between the teeth are cleaned. The procedure concludes with a polish or the application of fluoride toothpaste, leaving the teeth smooth and protected.

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Aftercare Tips Following Tartar Removal

Avoid eating or drinking for the first 2 hours after the procedure.
For the first 24 hours, steer clear of hot and cold foods or beverages.
It’s normal to experience mild tingling and sensitivity to temperature changes in the first few days. Ice packs can help manage any swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate discomfort.

Maintaining diligent oral hygiene is especially important after the procedure. Although the process may cause some initial discomfort, it’s crucial to continue brushing and flossing to maintain the results.

Slight bleeding may occur in the initial days after scaling. Using antiseptic mouthwash can be helpful during this time. For patients with heavy tartar or advanced gum disease, some tooth mobility may occur after the procedure.

To ensure ongoing dental health, it’s essential to continue visiting the dentist every 6 months. If needed, the scaling process may be repeated based on the dentist’s recommendation.