Get Your Teeth Squeaky Clean With Our Slidell Dentist
Visiting your dentist for dental cleanings in Slidell twice a year is essential for keeping your smile squeaky clean and beautiful. They can clean areas of your mouth that are easily missed at home and can remove hardened tartar that’s formed and plaque buildup.
Find out how the plaque and tartar removal process works with our Slidell dentist below. If you want to schedule an appointment today, call (985) 214-0818. We also proudly serve patients coming from Ama, Taft, Holden, and the surrounding areas.
Where Expertise Meets Compassion – Our Slidell Dentist, Dr. Pamela Daigle
Dr. Pamela Daigle stands out not just for her skill as a dentist in Slidell, but for the way she connects with her patients. A graduate of LSU School of Dentistry with years of experience serving the Slidell community, she’s known for her calm, patient-centered approach. Dr. Daigle understands that dental visits can bring anxiety for many, and she takes the time to explain procedures clearly, answer every question, and make sure you feel comfortable and heard. Her balance of clinical expertise and compassionate care has earned her the trust of individuals and families who come back year after year—for the treatment they need, and the kindness they deserve.
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.
The Benefits of Removing Plaque & Tartar
Plaque and tartar removal has numerous benefits, including:
- Preventing tooth decay and cavities
- Preventing gum disease
- Reducing bad breath
- Keeping teeth looking and feeling clean
- Maintainining overall dental health
When Plaque and Tartar Removal in Slidell 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
Removing plaque and tartar typically takes place during routine dental cleanings. The process works as follows:
- Examination: The Slidell dentist or dental hygienist will examine your teeth to determine the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling: Using a special tool, the dentist or dental hygienist 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, the dentist or 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental cleanings take?
A standard dental cleaning usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. If it’s been a while since your last visit, or if you have significant plaque or tartar buildup, your cleaning may take a bit longer. Routine checkups that include an exam and X-rays may also extend the total appointment time slightly.
Are dental cleanings covered by insurance?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover two routine cleanings per year as part of preventive care. This often includes a professional cleaning, exam, and possibly X-rays. However, coverage may vary depending on your provider and plan, so it’s a good idea to check with your insurance company or dental office beforehand.
Can I get free dental cleanings near me?
Free dental cleanings may be available through local health fairs, dental schools, nonprofit clinics, or community outreach events. Some clinics also offer sliding scale fees or payment plans based on income. To explore your options in Slidell, LA, contact Off The Trace Dental or check with area health organizations to see if you qualify for any free or low-cost dental services.
Do dental cleanings whiten teeth?
Dental cleanings don’t whiten teeth in the same way professional whitening treatments do, but they can make your smile appear noticeably brighter. During a cleaning, your dentist or hygienist removes surface stains caused by things like coffee, tea, tobacco, and plaque buildup. This polishing effect can improve the color and shine of your teeth — giving them a cleaner, fresher look — even though it doesn’t change the intrinsic color of your enamel. If you’re looking for dramatic whitening results, your dentist may recommend a separate teeth whitening treatment.
Our Slidell Dentist Can Keep Your Smile Clean and Healthy
Removing built-up plaque and hardened tartar is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By having your teeth cleaned regularly and following proper dental care habits, you can prevent plaque buildup, fight cavities, and prevent gum disease.
If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment, reach out to your local dentist by calling (985) 214-0818. We also proudly serve patients coming from Ama, Taft, Holden, and the surrounding areas.