Can I Scrape Plaque off My Teeth?
Dental plaque is the sticky substance that forms on our teeth throughout the day, making them feel a little fuzzy. When dental plaque is not removed every day with brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. The only way to remove tartar is to have it professionally removed by your dental hygienist. Plaque can be removed with brushing and flossing but since tartar is hard, it has to be scraped off.
When tartar accumulates, it can cause gum recession and periodontal disease. Sometimes, all you need is a regular professional cleaning but if you are showing signs of early periodontal disease, called gingivitis, you may require a deep cleaning.
Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to advanced periodontal disease and can lead to gum recession, bone loss, tooth mobility, or even tooth loss. Some patients are more susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup than others so it is important for these patients to see their dentist more frequently than the standard twice a year. Patients who undergo a deep cleaning, called a scaling and root planing, typically need follow up cleanings 3 to 4 times a year.
Can I scrape tartar off myself?
Your dental hygienist uses special tools to scrape tartar from your teeth and from under the gun line. It is not a good idea to try to do this yourself. Yes, you can buy dental scrapers at the drugstore but they are very sharp and improper use can cause damage to delicate gum tissue.
Damage to the gum tissue is painful and can cause gum recession, exposing the root surface and leading to severe sensitivity. You can also cause damage to other soft tissues in your mouth such as your cheeks and tongue. Your dental hygienist went to school for two years to learn how to properly and safely clean and care for their patient's teeth. If you attempt to remove tartar on your own, you can push harder further below the gum line and cause other issues.
Proper oral hygiene is the best way to keep your teeth healthy between dental visits. Floss at least once a day and brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristle toothbrush, using a toothpaste with fluoride. Removing plaque every day is important for good oral health but removing tartar is best left to the professionals!
If you are concerned about plaque build up, take time to visit your dentist for a cleaning and exam so they can identify and address any issues that may arise. Prevention is the best way to maintain a healthy smile and is much less costly than treating damage caused by plaque build up. If you attempt to scrape tartar off of your teeth on your own, you may end up causing more damage that can lead to more severe issues down the road!