Tartar Removal – What It Is and Why You Need It
Tartar removal, also known as dental scaling, is a professional procedure that eliminates hardened plaque (tartar) from your teeth. Tartar forms when regular brushing and flossing fail to remove plaque, which then mineralizes on the tooth surface. Left untreated, tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even bone loss.
At Elonix Dental Clinic in Tirana, Albania, we use advanced tools and techniques to safely and thoroughly remove tartar, helping you maintain long-term oral health.
What Happens During a Professional Tartar Removal Session?
Tartar removal is a key part of any professional dental cleaning. When you visit Elonix for a hygiene appointment, here’s what you can expect:
- A comprehensive oral examination
- Tartar removal using ultrasonic or manual instruments
- Teeth polishing for a smooth, clean finish
- Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
- Personalized home care instructions to prevent buildup
We recommend scheduling a professional dental cleaning at least once a year—especially if you’re considering cosmetic or restorative treatments like veneers, implants, or full mouth reconstruction.
Techniques We Use at Elonix Dental Clinic
Our team tailors the treatment to each patient’s needs using the latest dental technology. Common tartar removal methods include:
Ultrasonic Scaling: Uses high-frequency vibrations to dislodge tartar. This method is efficient and gentle on the gums, helping reduce bleeding and inflammation.
Manual Instruments: Dental scalers and curettes are used for precise tartar removal. This technique requires more time but allows for detailed control in sensitive areas.
Laser Therapy: Some cases benefit from laser-assisted cleaning, which can reduce discomfort and speed up healing, particularly in patients with gum disease.
Water Jet Systems: A pressurized stream of water removes plaque and tartar. While less common, it’s a useful option for patients with sensitive gums.
Conscious Sedation: For anxious patients or those with heightened sensitivity, we offer light sedation to make the experience more comfortable.
How to Prevent Tartar Buildup at Home: Preventing tartar starts with daily habits. Here are dentist-recommended tools and tips:
Anti-tartar toothpaste: Look for active ingredients like stannous fluoride or pyrophosphates that help prevent plaque mineralization.
Antibacterial mouthwash: Products containing chlorhexidine or similar agents reduce bacteria and support gum health.
Electric toothbrushes: Oscillating or rotating brushes are proven more effective than manual ones in removing plaque.
Daily flossing: Essential for cleaning between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach.
Interdental brushes: Ideal for people with wider gaps between teeth.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables: Apples and carrots naturally clean the teeth while chewing.
Sugar-free gum: Stimulates saliva production to neutralize acids and reduce plaque.
Routine dental checkups: Even with perfect home care, professional cleanings are essential to prevent tartar buildup.
