One of the worst parts about going to the dentist is the poking and scratching done by the dental hygienists. Whether they’re trying to remove calcified tartar, old plaque, or just checking your gum health – it’s not a fun experience! Some people find the dentist so unenjoyable they have started using DIY cleaning kits. However, these teeth cleaning kits often promise more than they can deliver. We will let you be the judge after we take a closer look at-home tartar buildup tools.
At-Home Tartar and Plaque Removal
Contrary to what the advertisements might say, most dentists will tell you that at-home tartar removers and at-home plaque removers are dangerous.
Dental Tartar Scraper Tool
Dental tartar scraper tools (like dental picks, dental scrapers, and DIY calculus removers) are very dangerous to use if you are not trained as a dental hygienist. DIY dental tartar scraper tools and plaque removal tools are made with very sharp metal ends, and by using them improperly you can damage your gum tissue. Gum tissue destruction is not only painful but can result in gum recession and irreversible damage.
Pros and Cons of At-Home Tartar Buildup Tools
Although there are two sides to every story, when it comes to at-home tartar buildup tools, there are really no pros to using them. For example, even though they may seem cheaper than going to the dentist every six months for check-ups, they actually cost you more money in the long run. That is because the lay population does not know how to properly use DIY teeth cleaning kits and by improperly using them, you will accidentally cause damage to your teeth and gums. The damage you cause will result in spending more money to have them professionally fixed by a real dentist.
Overall, DIY teeth cleaning kits are highly dangerous and not recommended by any reputable dentists.
How to Safely Remove Tartar Buildup Yourself
If you do suffer from dental plaque and tartar buildup, don’t worry – there’s still hope for a brighter smile! There are, in fact, ways to safely remove tartar buildup yourself…
The safest ways to remove tartar buildup:
- Brushing 2-3 times a day: Make sure you have a routine of brushing (with a soft-bristled toothbrush) at least twice a day. Ideally, you should brush after every significant meal and before you go to sleep for the night.
- Flossing once a day: Flossing easily gets rid of the sticky plaque that hides in-between your teeth and on your gum line. By flossing at least once a day, you are removing the junk that can build up to eventually cause cavities.
- Regular visits to your dentist: You should plan on visiting your dentist for an oral check-up once every six months. By regularly visiting your dentist, you can avoid any tartar, plaque, or calculus build-up. And if there are any problems, your dentist will know what to do!
Your Dentist Knows Best
Whether it is a simple question about your flossing technique, or if you want to talk through the pros and cons of at-home tartar buildup tools, your dentist knows bests. Remember: your entire dental team has undergone years of intense, professional training to get to this point. They know what they’re doing!
DeJesus Dental Group: 25 Years of Trusted Dentistry
At DeJesus Dental Group, we have carefully selected a highly trained team of dental care professionals. Our team loves what they do, and not only will they help you receive fast accurate dental care, but they will also help you feel relaxed and welcome. For 25 years we have worked hard to be your go-to dental team in the Bridgeport and Shelton area. Your friends, family, and colleagues have trusted us with their smile- and now it’s your turn. Book your appointment today!