The dental hygienist will usually use special tools to remove food and hardened debris from your teeth when you visit your dentist for a checkup. One of these dental tools is the scaler or curette, also known as a plaque or ultrasonic tooth cleaner. This tool can be used to remove tartar and plaque buildup. Although you can find many different types of consumer plaque cutters, it isn’t a good idea for yourself to use them. We’ll tell you all about why home plaque removal can be dangerous.
How dental scalers work
Dental tartar can form from plaque buildup (biofilm). If it isn’t treated, it can cause dental disease and tooth decay. Here’s how to do it:
- As they consume sugars, bacteria in plaque releases acids. Tooth decay occurs when these acids cause tooth enamel to be broken down.
- Periodontal disease can also be caused by the bacteria.
To maintain optimal oral health, it is important to know the damaging effects of plaque buildup.
Metal and ultrasonic tools are used to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth.
Your dental hygienist is well-trained in tooth scaling as well as periodontal care. She knows exactly what to look for, and how to safely remove plaque and tartar. This is not a difficult task that can be accomplished at home. However, it can be dangerous and costly.
What Are the Dangers Of DIY Plaque Scraping
Plaque and dental scalers require special training. DIYing can lead to misuse.
- Damage your delicate gum tissue. Gum tissue trauma is more than just painful. It can also lead to gum recess, which could expose sensitive roots.
- Take off the enamel from your teeth. This could cause tooth sensitivity.
- Inflict injury on your cheeks, tongue, and other soft tissue.
- You can cause infections. Intentionally pushing tartar under your gum line can lead to gum abscesses, or other problems.
You can safely remove plaque with your home dental tool kit
A great home oral care program and a reliable dental scaler will allow you to safely remove plaque at your home. Here are the tools to get rid of plaque safely at home before gum disease, tooth decay, or tooth decay sets in.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush & Fluoride Toothpaste: Brush two times daily to remove plaque
- Interdental Cleaner: Use one of these products to remove plaque daily from under your gumline and between your teeth.
- Tape or dental floss
- Interdental brush
- Water flosser
- Antibacterial Plaque-Reducing Tooth wash: Rinse daily.
Regular visits to the dentist can be a great way to find out if your job is doing a good job and also address any issues. Your dental hygienist is trained to remove any plaque or tartar during visits.
For good oral health, it is important to remove and prevent plaque from forming. You don’t want your dental health to be compromised by scraping plaque at home. Your licensed dentist should be able to use specialized tools. You can be sure of safe, effective oral health care.