Dental plaque and tartar are two common dental problems that can cause tooth decay and gum inflammation. Although plaque and tartar can be difficult to remove, understanding the causes, prevention, and treatment of dental plaque and tartar can help you keep your teeth healthy and free from tooth decay. This blog will explore the basics of dental plaque and tartar formation, discuss the different types of plaque and tartar, and provide tips on prevention and treatment.
What are Dental Plaque and Tartar?
Dental plaque forms when food, bacteria, and sugar combine to form a sticky substance on teeth. It is composed of bacteria, food debris, and calculus – a mineralized substance that forms on the tooth surface. Dental plaque builds up on the surface of your teeth, creating a film that is hard to brush off.
Tartar is an accumulation of dental plaque that has hardened into whitish deposits on the tooth surfaces. Both plaque and tartar can cause damage to tooth enamel over time, leading to decay or gum disease. The common cause of plaque and tartar is neglecting your dental hygiene. Poor oral hygiene habits can cause the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, gums, tongue, and other areas of the oral cavity.
What are Some Symptoms of Dental Plaque and Tartar?
Dental plaque and tartar formation are two common oral health issues that can be hard to detect and treat. Below are four key symptoms to be on the lookout for.
- Teeth that are stained or discolored from dental plaque and tartar
- Bad breath
- Gum disease or oral inflammation
- Teeth that feel gritty when you touch them
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get professional help. If the plaque and tartar are severe or difficult to remove, oral surgery may be necessary. Remember that prevention is the best medicine, so ensure you practice good oral hygiene habits and schedule regular checkups with your dentist.
Prevention and Treatment of Plaque and Tartar
To prevent dental plaque and tartar from developing, regular dental checkups are vital. A dental professional will assess your oral health during these checkups and recommend treatment for tartar and plaque buildup. It is also crucial to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste – this will help remove any food, debris, and saliva that may cause dental plaque and tartar to form. Other prevention tips include flossing regularly and avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol.
Treatment options for plaque and tartar include brushing and flossing, using mouthwash, using dental floss, using a dental irrigator, using a toothbrush with plaque-fighting bristles, or plaque removal toothpaste. Dental treatment must often be tailored to an individual’s oral health needs considering disease risk factors. Thus, the most effective way to get rid of plaque or tartar that has formed on your teeth is to see a dental professional.
Get Help For Dental Plaque and Tartar in Sugar land TX.
If you’re looking for a periodontist in Sugar Land, Texas, to treat dental plaque or tartar, contact Fort Bend Periodontics and Implantology today! Dr. Dyer and Dr. Nguyen are experienced periodontists, specializing in cutting-edge treatments for all kinds of dental problems and cosmetic procedures.
To learn more about our services, please contact us online or call us at (281) 980-2344.
