The Risks of Dental Plaque and Tartar, Explained

Surveys currently indicate that millions of Americans haven’t visited a dentist in over a year. Time, money, and availability all play into the decision to not visit the dentist.

Many people are embarrassed by how their teeth look, and they don’t want a dentist looking at them. Yet there’s no better way to fix your dental problems than by visiting the dentist.

Problems like plaque and tartar plague even the average mouth. Yet a simple visit to the dentist can diagnose and then treat this problem. You can walk away with a tarter and plaque-free smile you’re proud of.

But first, you need to understand the problem. By the time you’ve finished reading this article, you will be able to explain how plaque and tartar affect oral health.

What Is Plaque?

Dental plaque exists on all teeth. It is a sticky layer that builds up on the teeth after saliva and food mix with bacteria. Some of the bacteria are good, and some are bad.

The harmful bacteria will produce acid after you drink or eat sugary foods. This acid then attacks the enamel on the teeth. Eventually, the plaque will build up and cause tender and swollen gums.

You can prevent plaque by limiting your sugary foods and drinks, flossing once a day, and brushing your teeth twice a day. You should also visit the dentist once every six months to get a checkup and routine cleaning.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar is the result of plaque that combines with minerals in your saliva. It coats your teeth and settles under your gum line, making your teeth difficult to clean.

If you have tartar below your gumline, the dental technician will have to remove it to prevent periodontal disease.

You can prevent tartar by preventing plaque. In short, daily brushing and flossing will keep plaque and thus tartar at bay.

Left alone, the tartar will eventually lead to gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease. Your gums will swell, turn red, and even bleed at times. they may pull away from your teeth and cause your teeth to loosen.

Sometimes your teeth can even fall out.

Importance of Dental Cleaning

A qualified dental hygienist will best know how to remove dental plaque and tartar by conducting a dental cleaning. The cleaning begins with the dentist checking your teeth and gums for potential issues, using a small mirror.

When the dentist spots tartar, they will use a scaler to scrape it away. The scaler looks like a metal stick with a small hook on its end. The dentist may also use an ultrasonic instrument to remove the tartar.

The ultrasonic will loosen the tartar, allowing the dentist to chip it off your teeth. They then will spray the area with water to wash away the tartar.

Your dentist will finish off the cleaning by brushing your teeth with gritty toothpaste and a rotating toothbrush. They’ll give you a fluoride treatment and floss your teeth as well.

Excellent oral care will lead to better overall health. These are two major reasons to get dental cleanings.

Deal With Plaque and Tartar

You can avoid the risks of dental plaque as well as the risks of tartar buildup by establishing and maintaining a basic oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss once a day. Then visit the dentist once every six months so you can have the dentist check and clean your teeth.

You don’t need to be embarrassed by the plaque and tartar on your teeth. Just deal with them.

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