Will Hardened Plaque Go Away?
When it comes to dental hygiene, one of the most important things is preventing the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums, and if left untreated, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove. But what if you already have hardened plaque on your teeth? Will it go away on its own?
The short answer is no, hardened plaque (also known as calculus or tartar) will not go away on its own. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed through professional cleaning by a dental hygienist or dentist. This is because tartar is too hard and firmly attached to the teeth for brushing and flossing alone to be effective.
If left untreated, tartar can lead to more serious dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. It is important to address hardened plaque as soon as possible to prevent these complications.
The process of removing tartar is called scaling and involves using special dental tools to scrape away the hardened buildup from the teeth. This is typically done during a routine dental cleaning appointment, but in more severe cases, additional treatments such as root planing may be necessary.
It is important to note that while professional cleaning is the only way to remove hardened plaque, regular brushing and flossing can help prevent it from forming in the first place. Good oral hygiene habits, combined with regular dental cleanings, can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and free from tartar buildup.
In addition to regular dental cleanings, there are also some at-home remedies that may help prevent and reduce tartar buildup. These include:
1. Brushing with a tartar control toothpaste – Toothpaste with tartar control ingredients can help prevent tartar buildup.
2. Using an electric toothbrush – Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque than manual brushes.
3. Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables – Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria.
4. Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash – Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen breath.
5. Using dental picks or interdental brushes – These tools can help clean between teeth where plaque often accumulates.
In conclusion, hardened plaque or tartar will not go away on its own and requires professional cleaning by a dental hygienist or dentist. It is important to address tartar buildup as soon as possible to prevent more serious dental issues. However, regular brushing and flossing, along with at-home remedies, can help prevent tartar from forming in the first place. By taking good care of your teeth and gums, you can help ensure a healthy smile for years to come. It's important to note that regular dental checkups and cleanings with a dental professional are crucial for removing hardened plaque and preventing it from forming in the first place. A dentist or dental hygienist can use specialized tools to effectively remove hardened plaque and prevent it from causing further damage to your teeth and gums.