How Plaque and Tartar Affect Your Smile

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Plaque and Tartar Prevention

Plaque and tartar can endanger the health of your mouth in ways not easily seen by the naked eye–initially. But ignored, plaque and tartar can put your beautiful smile at serious risk!  Learning about how you can safeguard your smile can help you get the leg up on tooth decay!  Our Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of the Rockies team is here to help you win the battle against tooth decay!

What is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?

Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to severe problems if left untreated to fester and attack your smile.  Plaque and tartar (calcified plaque, also called calculus) are thrown around synonymously, but they are actually two very different things and must be treated as such. Plaque causes cavities because the acid within it attacks the enamel of your teeth after you eat.  If the plaque is left long enough on your teeth, it can break through the enamel giving the cavity a sticky place to take hold. Plaque irritates your gums and can cause your gums to start to recede. Gum recession can lead to eventual tooth loss. Tartar is advanced plaque that hasn’t been brushed away.  It calcifies on your teeth, often along the gumline, and can only be removed by your dentist through a scaling procedure. Tartar and plaque cause bad breath, irritate your gums, and release toxins into your gums and bones that can cause your bones to dissolve. Bones keep teeth fixed in place.  Without enough bone in place, your teeth become loose and can fall out. This condition is called periodontitis and can be very serious.  The good news in all this is that you can prevent most oral problems with daily dedication to oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist.

 

Brush, Brush, Brush! Then Brush Some More!

You have been told again and again about the importance of brushing and flossing your teeth and we are going to say it again. One of the single best ways to protect your teeth from the dangers of plaque and tartar buildup is through the simple daily act of brushing and flossing your teeth.  This oral hygiene act prevents plaque from forming and sticking on your teeth. Tartar can’t form without plaque so ensuring plaque is shut out is your way to oral health success. Avoid the need for periodontal treatment by brushing after every meal and flossing every day!

Get Help When You Need It!

Tartar on teeth is easy to spot.  Once it forms, it won’t come off from simple brushing. You will need professional assistance from our expert and friendly staff at Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of the Rockies to remove tartar buildup.  We have the tools your teeth need to rid them a tartar assault! Ignoring the buildup of tartar leads to gum irritation, gum disease and periodontal disease.  Don’t let your mouth health get out of control with these advanced conditions. Stop tartar buildup, growth, and effects right when you spot them.  Disclosing tablets can help you discover areas where plaque is accumulating. You can find them at most convenience stores or ask our office about their use.

 

What Can You Do to Reduce Oral Health Risks?

Our philosophy here at Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of the Rockies, is that prevention is often the best medicine. Healthy teeth and gums depend on good oral hygiene, a low-sugar diet, healthy saliva production and regular visits to the dentist. It is important that you tell your dentist about any drugs or medications you are taking, including illegal drugs.  By practicing proper dental habits every day, you can help prevent serious dental and medical problems in the future. To best maintain the health and beauty of your smile, we recommend the following best practices:

  • Brush Regularly
  • Floss Daily
  • Rinse with Mouthwash
  • Have an In-Office Cleaning/Exam at Least Twice a Year
  • Avoid Tobacco Products
  • Cut Down on Sugar

Brushing and flossing may seem like simple acts, but they pack a powerful punch when they are done day after day!  Commit to safeguarding your health by fighting the power of plaque and tartar!

Call for an Oral Health Care Consultation

It is recommended that you get dental checkups and cleanings at least twice a year.  If you’d like to know more about what you can do to preserve your smile, or if you’d like to make an appointment, call our Fort Collins office today at (970) 267-0993. You can also reach us after office hours by submitting a contact or appointment request online using the form below.