During dental cleaning appointments, your dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth.

Plaque is a soft film consisting of food debris and bacteria which sticks to the surfaces of the teeth. Tartar, on the other hand, is plaque that has hardened and can only be removed by a dental professional.

Bacteria found in plaque and tartar can collect at the gum line and cause gingivitis. By keeping up with your routine hygiene cleanings, you’re able to:

• Remove dental plaque and tartar
• Prevent cavities
• Prevent gingivitis
• Avoid bad breath
• Keep the teeth clean
• Avoid bacteria from sticking to the surfaces of the tooth

Routine Dental Hygiene Procedure

1. Your dentist or dental hygienist uses instruments to gently remove deposits on your teeth.
2. Large tartar pieces will be loosened and sprayed away with mists of water.
3. Your dental hygienist will use a scaler to manually remove smaller deposits on your teeth and make them smooth after.
4. Your dentist or hygienist will polish your teeth to complete the cleaning. They may also use fluoride to strengthen your teeth’s enamel.