Professional tartar removal is the only safe and effective way to eliminate hardened plaque from your teeth.

Once plaque mineralizes, it becomes tartar. At that stage, brushing and flossing are no longer enough. A dental professional must remove it using specialized tools.

Understanding how professional tartar removal works can help you protect your oral health long term.

Why Professional Removal Is Necessary

Tartar bonds tightly to enamel and below the gumline.

If left untreated, it can:

• Irritate gum tissue

• Cause bleeding

• Lead to gum recession

• Contribute to periodontal disease

• Increase cavity risk

Removing it early prevents more serious complications.

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The Professional Tartar Removal Process

The procedure typically includes:

1. Oral Examination

The dental professional checks for inflammation, pocket depth, and buildup levels.

2. Scaling

Special instruments remove tartar from:

• Tooth surfaces

• Between teeth

• Along and slightly below the gumline

Ultrasonic scalers may use gentle vibration and water spray to break apart deposits.

3. Polishing

After scaling, teeth are polished to remove surface stains and smooth enamel.

Smoother surfaces make plaque less likely to stick.

How Long Does It Take?

A routine cleaning usually takes 30–60 minutes.

If buildup is heavy, the appointment may take longer or require multiple visits.

Is Professional Tartar Removal Safe?

Yes. When performed by trained professionals, the procedure is safe.

It does not damage enamel.

In fact, it protects enamel by removing harmful bacteria.

Deep Cleaning vs Routine Cleaning

Routine professional tartar removal addresses buildup above and slightly below the gumline.

If gum disease is present, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be recommended.

Deep cleaning:

• Targets bacteria deeper below the gums

• Smooths root surfaces

• Reduces periodontal pockets

Your dentist determines which treatment is appropriate.

Benefits of Professional Tartar Removal

Regular professional care helps:

• Prevent gingivitis

• Reduce bleeding gums

• Maintain fresh breath

• Lower cavity risk

• Preserve long-term gum health

It also allows early detection of dental issues.

How Often Should You Schedule It?

Most people benefit from cleaning every six months.

Higher-risk patients may need more frequent visits.

Personalized scheduling ensures optimal results.

What Happens If You Avoid It?

Avoiding professional tartar removal can lead to:

• Chronic gum inflammation

• Progressive gum recession

• Bone loss

• Tooth mobility

Early maintenance is easier and less costly than advanced treatment.

Discover how Dental Pro 7 supports healthier gum maintenance

FAQ

1. What is professional tartar removal?

It is a dental procedure that removes hardened plaque using specialized instruments.

2. Does professional removal damage enamel?

No. When done correctly, it protects enamel by eliminating harmful bacteria.

3. How often is professional tartar removal needed?

Most people require cleaning every six months, though some may need it more frequently.

4. Can tartar return after professional cleaning?

Yes. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque can harden again over time.