Dental plaque is a soft, fuzzy, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. Left undisturbed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), irritates gums, and can lead to cavities and gum disease. The good news: with smart home care and routine professional cleanings, you can keep plaque under control and your smile healthy. At 92 Dentistry in Southeast Portland, we provide preventive and restorative care for every stage of oral health.
Daily Habits That Slow Plaque Buildup
- Brush twice daily and floss once a day. Focus along the gumline with a 90-degree angle where plaque collects.
- Consider an electric toothbrush if you struggle to reach every surface. All electric toothbrushes come with a 2-minute timer.
- Rinse as advised and limit frequent snacking—especially sticky or sugary foods.
- If you wear clear aligners, clean trays at each removal and brush/floss before reinserting, aligners trap plaque if teeth aren’t clean.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning
A typical preventive visit includes a thorough exam and a cleaning performed by a hygienist. Your hygienist may record periodontal charting (gum measurements) to decide whether you need a standard cleaning or a deeper, gum-focused visit.
When a “Deep Cleaning” Is Recommended
If plaque and tartar have accumulated above and below the gumline, your provider may recommend scaling and root planing (a “deep cleaning”) to remove buildup and smooth root surfaces so gums can heal. It’s a common, non-surgical periodontal therapy.
Red Flags: When to Book Sooner
- Gums that bleed, look puffy, or feel tender
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- Visible tartar, tooth sensitivity, or a “fuzzy” feeling that returns quickly after brushing
If you have pain, swelling, or a broken tooth, our Emergency Dentistry team can help.
Your Next Step at 92 Dentistry
We make it easy to start (or restart) routine care with a clear first-visit process and a convenient Southeast Portland location. Contact us to schedule a cleaning and exam; we’ll map out the right plan for your smile.
Costs, Insurance & Financing
We accept most dental insurance, major cards, and offer CareCredit® financing to help fit care into your budget. Our team will review expected costs before treatment.
