Winning the Fight Against Buildup: Plaque and Tartar Removal in Loveland
A radiant smile starts with a clean foundation, and that means winning the battle against plaque and tartar. At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we understand the importance of professional dental cleanings in maintaining optimal oral health. Explore the impact of plaque and tartar on your smile, the process of professional removal, and how Dr. Howard, one of the top dentists in Loveland, CO, can help you achieve a healthier, brighter smile.
Call us today at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your appointment and experience the difference a professional cleaning can make. Discover why patients in Evans, Garden City, and Windsor trust Dr. Howard with their oral health and why you can too.
What is Dental Plaque and Tartar?
Plaque, a sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth, is composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If not removed effectively through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (also known as calculus), a calcified deposit that adheres firmly to your teeth. Tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and requires professional intervention. 
When is Removing Plaque and Tartar Necessary?
Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to a host of oral health problems, including:
- Gum Disease: The bacteria in plaque and tartar irritate the gums, causing inflammation, redness, and bleeding. This is the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
- Tooth Decay: The bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
- Bad Breath: The bacteria in plaque and tartar also produce sulfur compounds, which contribute to bad breath (halitosis).
- Stained Teeth: Tartar can cause yellow or brown discoloration on your teeth, affecting the appearance of your smile.
Dr. Howard emphasizes regular professional plaque and tartar removal is essential for preventing these issues and maintaining optimal oral health.
Why Choose Our Loveland Dentist for Dental Cleanings?
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry in Loveland, CO, Dr. Howard and our team offer a unique combination of expertise, advanced technology, and personalized attention to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Comprehensive Care with a Personal Touch: Dr. Howard is trained in a wide array of dental procedures, allowing us to provide comprehensive care all in one location.
- Comfort and Anxiety Management: We understand that dental anxiety is common. Our compassionate team strives to create a relaxed and welcoming environment where you feel at ease. We also offer various dental sedation options, including oral, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation, to help you feel comfortable during your visit.
- Clear Communication and Education: We believe that an educated patient is an empowered patient. Dr. Howard takes the time to explain your treatment options, what to expect during procedures, and how to care for your smile afterward.
- Focus on Lasting Oral Health: Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for a lifetime. We provide preventive care, patient education, and ongoing support to help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Call us today at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your consultation and experience the difference personalized dental care can make.
The Plaque and Tartar Removal Process
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry in Loveland, CO, we provide thorough and comfortable plaque and tartar removal procedures. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
- Examination: Dr. Howard or the hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to assess the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Using specialized instruments called scalers, the hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gum line. Different types of scalers may be used depending on the location and amount of buildup.
- Ultrasonic Scaling: An ultrasonic scaler may be used for more stubborn tartar deposits. This device vibrates at a high frequency to loosen and remove tartar, while also spraying a cooling mist of water to flush away debris.
- Root Planing: If you have signs of gum disease, root planing may be necessary. This involves smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth to remove any residual tartar and bacteria, promoting gum healing and reducing inflammation.
- Polishing: After scaling and root planing, your teeth will be polished using a prophy cup and paste. This removes any remaining surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
- Flossing: The hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Fluoride Treatment: A fluoride treatment may be recommended to strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
Caring for Your Teeth Between Dental Visits
While professional cleanings are crucial, practice good oral hygiene habits at home is equally important. Dr. Howard recommends:
- Brushing Twice a Day: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time using a fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing Daily: Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.
- Using Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth.
- Eating a Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which contribute to plaque formation.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit the Center for Advanced Dentistry in Loveland, CO, for regular checkups and cleanings as recommended by Dr. Howard.
Frequently Asked Questions
The American Dental Association recommends professional dental cleanings every six months for most people. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings depending on your individual needs and oral health status.
No, plaque and tartar removal isn’t painful. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during a cleaning. Hygienists are gentle and will take steps to ensure your comfort. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, please let us know, and we will adjust our techniques accordingly, or reccomend other gum disease treatments.
No, you cannot remove tartar at home because is too hard to be removed with regular brushing and flossing. It requires professional dental instruments and techniques with a dental hygienist.
Your Path to a Brighter, Healthier Smile in Loveland
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, radiant smile. Dr. Howard and our skilled team provide gentle, thorough cleanings in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Call us at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your appointment and embark on a journey to a healthier, more confident smile. We also welcome patients from the surrounding areas of Fort Collins, Greeley, and Berthoud.