Plaque and Tartar Removal at Our Lansing Office for a Healthier, Brighter Smile!
Our experienced Lansing, MI dentist, Dr. Caroline Kim and her experienced team provide thorough plaque and tartar removal designed to protect your teeth and gums and keep your smile looking its best. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, and if it is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation, cavities, bad breath, and even more serious periodontal disease. During your professional dental cleaning at Kim Dentistry, we carefully remove plaque and tartar from every surface of your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas that brushing alone cannot reach. Our team also evaluates your oral health, offers personalized tips for preventing future buildup, and ensures your gums stay healthy and strong.
Regular plaque and tartar removal at Kim Dentistry helps you prevent oral health problems, maintain a fresh and confident smile, and enjoy long-term dental wellness. To learn more about the benefits of plaque and tartar removal, contact our Lansing dental office by calling (517) 886-1100.
Compassionate Care You Can Trust in Lansing
Dr. Caroline Kim is dedicated to making every dental visit a positive experience, combining expert care with a gentle, patient-focused approach. At Kim Dentistry in Lansing, MI, she takes the time to ensure each patient feels comfortable and informed throughout their visit, whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more involved procedure.
Patients consistently praise Dr. Kim for her kindness and professionalism. Our patient Caitlin G., shared her experience:
- “Today was my first time in and this was the best experience I’ve had with a dentist. She and the staff are super gentle and made me feel very comfortable. I haven’t been in a while so I was a little nervous but I am so glad I went!”
With Dr. Kim, you are not just getting a cleaning. You are receiving care from a dentist who truly listens and prioritizes your comfort and long-term oral health.
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.
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 at Kim Dentistry
Removing plaque and tartar typically takes place during routine dental cleanings. The process works as follows:
- Examination: Dr. Kim will examine your teeth to determine the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Using a special tool, our Lansing dentist 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, our 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.
If you need assistance with learning how to properly take care of your teeth, contact our Lansing dental office by calling (517) 886-1100.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Visit Your Trusted Lansing Dentist for Gentle Plaque & Tartar Removal
At Kim Dentistry in Lansing, MI, Dr. Caroline Kim and her team are committed to providing comprehensive dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. From routine cleanings to preventive exams, every visit is designed to keep your smile healthy and your experience comfortable. Serving patients throughout Lansing and the surrounding communities, Kim Dentistry focuses on gentle techniques, personalized attention, and education to help you maintain optimal oral health. Whether you are returning for your regular cleaning or visiting for the first time, you can trust Dr. Kim and her staff to make your dental care experience positive, stress-free, and tailored to your unique needs. Schedule your next dental cleaning appointment with our Lansing general dentist by calling (517) 886-1100.
