At Hakimi Dental Clinic, we care about helping you keep your smile healthy and beautiful. One way to do that is by understanding the difference between plaque and tartar and knowing how to manage them.
With just a few simple steps, you can easily take care of your teeth at home and keep them in great shape. We’re here to make dental care straightforward and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying your day with confidence.
What is plaque?
Plaque is that soft, sticky film that you might feel on your teeth, especially when you haven’t brushed in a while. It’s full of bacteria, which feed on the sugars in the food you eat. If you don’t remove plaque by brushing and flossing, it can start causing problems like cavities and gum irritation. But don’t worry—plaque is normal, and with a good brushing routine, you can keep it under control.
What is tartar?
Now, if plaque is left on your teeth for too long, it hardens into something called tartar (also known as calculus). Unlike plaque, tartar is rough and hard, and it sticks to your teeth in a way that brushing can’t fix.
Tartar usually forms along the gumline, and if it’s not removed, it can lead to gum disease and other dental issues. The key thing to remember here is that while you can brush away plaque at home, tartar needs to be removed by a dentist or hygienist at a hygienist appointment.
Simple tips for preventing plaque and tartar
I know you’ve heard these tips a million times, but keeping your mouth healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some easy things you can do every day:
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Use a toothpaste with fluoride and brush for two minutes each time. Make sure to reach all areas of your mouth—front, back, and the chewing surfaces.
- Floss daily: Flossing isn’t just for getting out food particles; it’s also essential for removing plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Use a mouthwash: A mouthwash that contains fluoride can help protect your teeth from decay. Just remember, it’s best to use mouthwash at a different time than brushing to keep the fluoride on your teeth longer.
- Watch your diet: Sugary snacks and drinks can increase plaque, so try to limit these. Instead, munch on crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots—they’re good for your teeth and your overall health!
Visit us regularly: Even with the best home care, you’ll need professional cleanings to remove tartar and check for any potential problems. Aim to see your dentist every six months.
Why regular dental visits matter
No matter how well you brush and floss, tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach places. That’s why regular dental check-ups are so important. At Hakimi Dental Clinic, we’re here to help keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy. During your visit, we’ll remove any tartar that’s formed and give you personalised tips to improve your oral care routine at home.
Conclusion
We hope this information helps you feel more confident about your dental care. Remember, we’re always here to support you on your journey to a healthier, brighter smile. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, just give us a call or message us on WhatsApp at Hakimi Dental Clinic—we’d love to see you! Our hygienist appointments start from only £35!
FAQs
Removing hard plaque, or tartar, typically falls under scaling and polishing services – hygienist appointment. At Hakimi Dental Clinic, our hygienist appointments start from only £35!
No, your teeth will not fall out if tartar is removed. In fact, removing tartar is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If tartar is left untreated, it can lead to gum disease, which in severe cases could cause tooth loss. Regular tartar removal helps prevent these complications, ensuring your teeth stay strong and healthy.
It’s never too late to remove tartar. Whether you’ve missed a few dental appointments or it’s been years since your last visit, a professional cleaning can effectively remove tartar and help restore your oral health. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if tartar build-up has led to gum disease, but it’s always a good idea to get it removed as soon as possible.
It’s not recommended to scrape hard plaque or tartar off your teeth by yourself. Doing so can damage your enamel and gums, potentially leading to infections or other dental issues. Professional dental cleanings use specialised tools to safely remove tartar without harming your teeth.
Salt doesn’t dissolve tartar, but it can help improve your oral hygiene. Rinsing with a saltwater solution can reduce bacteria in your mouth, soothe inflamed gums, and help manage minor dental issues. However, once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a dentist.