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Dentist Plano, TX


Esthetics • Health • Function

Dangers of Using a Plaque Scraper at Home
Posted on 1/25/2021 by McDonald Office
Dangers of Using a Plaque Scraper at HomeWe all know that brushing twice daily is essential for preventing plaque build-up. However, the truth is that no matter how hard you try, at-home dental cleaning tools, namely toothbrushes, cannot completely get rid of plaque, and over time, plaque deposits in the crevices can lead to bacterial infections and gum diseases. Thus, you need to visit a dentist for a professional dental cleaning twice a year.

A dentist uses specialized professional dental cleaning tools and products. For plaque, they have a dental/ plaque scraper that has a sharp cutting that dentists use to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and gum lining. They may even go over the teeth's roots if need be to remove plaque and tartar build-up from damaging the teeth's roots.

Nowadays, dental scaling tools are easily available in departmental stores. However, it is not safe to use at home. The sharp-edged scraper is not meant for use by untrained individuals. Dentists undergo extensive training to learn how to use these tools safely and how to maintain optimal hygiene. In fact, dental hygienists undergo special training on the maintenance and upkeep of dental tools.

Potential Side-effects of DIY Plaque Scraping


Using sharp-edged specialized dental tools at home and unsupervised can be very dangerous and unhygienic. It can also lead to bigger dental and oral healthcare problems.

•  Damage delicate gum tissue
•  Trigger gum recession
•  Cause bacterial infection
•  Cause soft tissue injuries such as cuts and scrapes on the cheeks and tongue.

If you want to remove plaque to maintain optimal oral hygiene, visit a dentist instead of attempting to clean it yourself via a dental scraper. You should also follow a proper oral healthcare regime and brush twice daily, floss regularly to get plaque and food out of crevices, and use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and prevent plaque and tartar build-up. Whatever you do, do not try to use a plaque scraper at home, or you may end up severely damaging your dental structure.

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We are constantly striving to give our patients the finest dental care possible, and our investment in advanced technology is also a long-term investment in your oral health. We understand that using updated technology leads to more informed decision-making, allowing our patients to make the best possible decisions about their oral health.


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It's easy to take a smile for granted, unless you're self-conscious about yours. In that case, you may spend more time and thought on hiding your smile than enjoying the moment. Natural imperfections, accidental damage, or food stains have always caused embarrassment and social anxiety. Don't dim your smile because of stained, chipped, or crooked teeth. With modern cosmetic dentistry, you can put those days behind you.

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Restore your smile with dental implants. McDonald & Luck DDS provides durable, natural-looking implants that function just like real teeth. Whether you've lost a single tooth or need a full-mouth restoration, our customized solutions offer a permanent and aesthetically pleasing alternative to dentures. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

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Achieve a perfect smile with Invisalign, the clear and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. With a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and easily removable, allowing you to eat, drink, and care for your teeth with ease.

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