Preventative dental care helps control two common but distinct dental concerns: plaque and tartar. Both of these develop naturally in the mouth and often lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss if left untreated. Understanding how plaque and tartar are formed and how they impact your oral health will make caring for your smile much simpler.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food fragments, and saliva that develops on the surfaces of your teeth after every meal or beverage. Oral bacteria feed on sugars and create acid as a result of this consumption. This acid attacks tooth enamel, weakening it and increasing the likelihood of tooth decay.
In addition to developing on the tooth surfaces, plaque also accumulates along the gumline. This causes irritation to the gum tissues and potentially causes gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. The fact that plaque is almost impossible to see is one reason why it is so easy for it to build up and go unnoticed.
Routine home care is one of the most important defenses against plaque. Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque before it causes damage.
When Plaque Turns into Tartar
As plaque sits on the surfaces of your teeth for extended periods of time, it combines with minerals present in the saliva and hardens, creating a deposit called tartar or dental calculus. Tartar differs from plaque in that it bonds directly to the surface of your teeth and cannot be removed simply by brushing or flossing.
Tartar often has a yellow, tan, or brown appearance and provides a rough surface that attracts even more bacteria. As tartar builds up on the surfaces of your teeth, the inflammation of your gums increases, your breath becomes worse, and staining appears more noticeable. However, the biggest concern associated with tartar buildup is when it is located below the gumline, as it often contributes to worsening gum disease and bone loss surrounding your teeth.
Professional dental cleanings remain the only safe and effective way to remove tartar once it develops.
Protecting Your Smile Every Day
There are a few simple practices that help prevent plaque and tartar buildup:
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Floss your teeth along the gum line daily.
- Avoid excessive snacking and sugary beverages.
- Schedule professional cleanings and checkups regularly
Even those who practice good home care benefit greatly from regular professional evaluations. Routine dental visits enable the detection of minor issues before they become painful and/or expensive.
A Quality Dental Team
At the Placerville Dental Group, our focus is on providing quality dental care with an emphasis on preventive care, patient comfort, and overall long-term oral health. Whether you need a routine cleaning, are seeking treatment for gum concerns, or need immediate emergency dental care, the experienced team at the Placerville Dental Group is available to assist you in protecting your smile and restoring your comfort when you need it most. Contact us today.
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