Get Your Teeth Squeaky Clean With Our West Chester Dentist

Visiting your dentist twice a year is essential for keeping your smile squeaky clean and beautiful. They can clean areas of your mouth that are easily missed at home and can remove hardened tartar that’s formed and plaque buildup. Find out how the plaque and tartar removal process works with Briglia Dental Group’s West Chester family dentist, Dr. Ron Briglia, below. Then, call our West Chester dental practice at (610) 890-7921 if you’re a new patient or (610) 692 4440 if you’re an existing patient, and schedule your dental cleaning.

What Is Plaque and Tartar Removal?

Plaque and tartar removal is performed during routine dental cleanings. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If plaque buildup isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar, also known as calculus, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Plaque and hardened tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Only a dental professional can remove tartar from the teeth, and without removal, it can create unwanted problems.

The Benefits of Removing Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar removal has numerous benefits, including:

Prevents tooth decay and cavities
Prevents gum disease
Reduces bad breath
Keeps teeth looking and feeling clean
Maintains overall dental health

When Plaque and Tartar Removal Is Necessary

Plaque and tartar removal is necessary for anyone who wants to maintain good dental health. While most patients need dental cleanings twice a year, some may need it more than others, including:

People who smoke or use tobacco
People with braces or other dental appliances
People with a history of gum disease or cavities
People who have a dry mouth
People with a diet high in sugar or carbohydrates

How the Plaque and Tartar Removal Process Works

Removing plaque and tartar typically takes place during routine dental cleanings. The process works as follows:

Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist will examine your teeth to determine the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
Scaling: Using a special tool, the dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and scrape away the tartar from the surface of your teeth. This process is called scaling.
Polishing: Once the tooth plaque and tartar are removed, the dentist or dental hygienist will polish your teeth using special toothpaste.
Fluoride Treatment: Finally, they may apply a fluoride treatment to help protect you from future tooth decay.

The length of the cleaning procedure can vary depending on the extent of buildup on your teeth. However, it typically takes around 30 minutes to complete.

Caring for Your Teeth After Plaque and Tartar Removal

After plaque and tartar removal, it’s essential to care for your teeth properly to maintain good oral health. Here are some tips for caring for your teeth after the procedure:

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove any remaining plaque and food particles.
Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
Limit your intake of sugary or starchy foods and drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

[collapsibles xclass=”accordion”] [collapse title=”Is plaque removal painful?”] No, plaque removal is typically painless. However, some people may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during the procedure. This is because the dental professional is scraping away plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can cause some sensitivity or discomfort. Should you experience severe pain during the dental cleaning procedure, let your dentist know immediately.[/collapse] [collapse title=”Can I remove plaque and tartar at home?”]While brushing and flossing can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, it’s not possible to remove tartar at home. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional using specialized tools. However, you can prevent tartar buildup by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and following a healthy diet.[/collapse] [collapse title=”Can plaque and tartar lead to other health problems?”]Yes, there’s evidence to suggest that poor oral health, including plaque and tartar buildup, can contribute to other health problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The bacteria in dental plaque can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation, which can lead to these and other health problems. That’s why it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental checkups.[/collapse] [collapse title=”What should I expect after the plaque and tartar removal procedure?”] You may experience some sensitivity or soreness in your gums for a day or two following the procedure. It’s also common to experience some bleeding when brushing or flossing. However, if the bleeding persists or you experience any severe pain or swelling, you should contact your dentist.[/collapse] [/collapsibles]

Our West Chester Dentist Can Keep Your Smile Clean and Healthy

Removing built-up plaque and hardened tartar is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By having your teeth cleaned regularly and following proper dental care habits, you can prevent plaque buildup, fight cavities, and prevent gum disease. Schedule your plaque and tartar removal with our West Chester family dentist by dialing (610) 890-7921 if you’re new or by dialing (610) 692 4440. Remember to visit at least twice a year and follow recommendations from our dentist for maintaining good oral health.

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Delphine C

For over 30 years I have been a patient of Dr. Briglia's and he has always given me and my family the very best care. He is an extremely talented doctor who has gone above and beyond to make sure our teeth and health are their best in every stage of our lives. He detected my husbands tongue cancer in it's very early stages. He not only keeps our smiles looking their whitest and brightest, he cares about us as individuals. He is the very best dentist you could have!

James S

I had a great visit with Dr, Briglia today. I am a bit dental phobic, and Dr. Briglia always takes time to insure I am fully numb before he works on my teeth. I had a filling done today and never felt a bit of pain, not even the needle to numb the area. I didn’t leave until the Doctor got my bite just right as well. It was a top quality visit!

Renee D

Absolutely the most caring and committed dentist around !!! My husband and I have been going to Briglia Dental Group for over a decade and wouldn’t think of going elsewhere. The office is exceptionally clean and orderly. The staff has been nothing less than excellent ! Always! Dr. Briglia has been there for us through every emergency and all our yearly dental care. We have been able to text him personally with any problem. How caring !! If you don’t know where to go ……. Try this place ! Will not be disappointed !

Brianna D

I’ve always hated going to the dentist, even as an adult, just thinking about it would give me anxiety. But Dr. Briglia changed that for me. He’s patient, gentle, and honestly one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. You can tell he genuinely cares about his patients and takes pride in doing things the right way. He’s a total perfectionist (in the best way possible) and somehow manages to make every visit feel calm and comfortable for me, which is such a relief since my anxiety over going to the dentist was so horrible before finding The Briglia Dental Group. I truly couldn’t imagine trusting anyone else. Also, the entire office staff is amazing as well. Everyone is warm, friendly, and makes you feel like family — but Dr. B is one of a kind and outstanding at what he does. I am forever grateful to have found this practice!

Jessica S

Very friendly and professional.

Andrew S

Pleasant experience!

Shuhboi D

If you need anything dental, doctor Briglia and Niko will help you with all your needs. Extremely nice and professional. I had an emergency with one of my molars breaking and I was taken care of that day. Couldn't recommend a better dentist.

Danielle H

Best service!

Sarah G

Dr. Briglia clearly cares about his patients and always spends adequate time with each of them. He really makes sure everyone is comfortable and informed. You can tell he takes great pride in his practice and takes care to make sure it is run properly. I would recommend.

Plaque & Tartar Removal in West Chester, PA

Creating confident, beautiful smiles since 1984

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