Will Hardened Plaque Go Away?
Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. If left untreated, plaque can harden and form tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Many people wonder if hardened dental plaque will go away on its own or if it requires professional treatment. In this essay, we will explore the question, "Will hardened dental plaque go away?" and discuss the options for removing it.
What is Hardened Dental Plaque?
Hardened dental plaque, also known as tartar or calculus, is a buildup of plaque that has not been removed and has hardened over time. Tartar is a mineralized deposit that can form above and below the gumline, and it can only be removed by a dental professional using specialized tools.
Will Hardened Dental Plaque Go Away on Its Own?
The short answer is no, hardened dental plaque will not go away on its own. Once plaque has hardened into tartar, it cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. Tartar requires professional treatment from a dentist or dental hygienist.
If left untreated, tartar can continue to build up on teeth and gums, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. It's important to visit a dental professional for regular cleanings and checkups to prevent the buildup of tartar.
How to Remove Hardened Dental Plaque
As mentioned earlier, hardened dental plaque can only be removed by a dental professional. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist will use specialized tools to remove tartar from teeth and gums. This process is called scaling and root planing, and it involves scraping the tartar off the teeth and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent further buildup.
Depending on the amount of tartar buildup, the dental professional may use different tools to remove it, such as ultrasonic instruments or hand scalers. The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the severity of the buildup.
After the tartar has been removed, the dental professional may also polish the teeth to remove any remaining stains or plaque buildup. They may also recommend additional treatments, such as fluoride treatment or dental sealants, to help prevent future plaque and tartar buildup.
Preventing Hardened Dental Plaque
Preventing the buildup of hardened dental plaque is key to maintaining good oral health. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help remove plaque and prevent it from hardening into tartar. It's also important to visit a dental professional for regular checkups and cleanings, as they can identify and remove any tartar buildup before it causes further damage to teeth and gums.
In addition, avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help prevent plaque buildup. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can also help support good oral health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hardened dental plaque, also known as tartar or calculus, will not go away on its own and requires professional treatment from a dental professional. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease and tooth decay if left untreated, so it's important to visit a dental professional regularly for cleanings and checkups. Practicing good oral hygiene habits and eating a balanced diet can also help prevent the buildup of tartar and promote good oral health.