Is it safe to use plaque scraper at home?
Dr. D.Sendhil Nathan MDS, DNB Prosthodontics And Implantology
Following a Dental hygiene routine is crucial for maintaining healthy & clean teeth. One of the most common issues when it comes to dental is plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth; if left untreated, it can lead to several dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
What is a Plaque Scraper?
A plaque scraper, also known as a tartar scraper or dental scaler, is a dental instrument used to remove Plaque from the teeth. It typically has a long, thin handle with a small, hooked end designed to reach into tight spaces between the teeth and remove plaque and tartar.
Not only does this help clean your teeth, but it can also help prevent gum disease and other dental problems. Dental professionals commonly use plaque Scrapers during Dental Cleaning Treatment. If you use the plaque scraper at home without the professionals’ concerns, you can face some of the issues mentioned below.
Dangers Of Using Plaque Scraper At Home
1) Gum Damage
Many people believe that scraping off plaque buildup on teeth and gums using Plaque Scraper is a good way to keep their mouths clean and healthy. However, improper use of a scraper can cause damage to the gums, leading to bleeding and inflammation. Because Plaque scrapers have sharp tips, Using this at home requires proper knowledge and technique to avoid turma.
2) Teeth Sensitivity
While removing plaque from your teeth is important, using a scraper too aggressively can cause damage to the enamel on your teeth, leading to sensitivity and pain.
3) Infection
Taking care of one’s oral hygiene is crucial for a healthy lifestyle, but using the wrong tools can lead to severe problems, such as infection. Plaque scrapers, for instance, are a popular tool to remove plaque from the teeth. When You use this tool at home without the knowledge, the sharp edges of the scraper can create tiny cuts in the gums, which can become infected over time.
4) Visibility of your oral cavity
When you go to the dentist’s office to remove plaque in your teeth, they put a clip on your teeth to get a clear view of your teeth, and they can easily remove the plaque from the mouth. But when you try to use plaque scrapers at home, you cannot remove the plaque from the hidden parts of the area in the mouth.
How to get rid of plaque
Brushing: Brushing your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste is one of the effective ways to prevent plaque buildup in the teeth.
Flossing: The study has shown that flossing once a day using dental or water floss helps to remove plaque.
Use mouthwash: Rinse your mouth using antibacterial mouthwash.
Follow a Healthy Diet: Cutting off the Sugary and sticky foods from your diet.
See your dentist: taking care of your teeth by following the prevention steps is a must, but when you already have a plaque in your teeth, visit the dentist’s office and get a safe and professional cleaning.
