At Teitler Family Dental Care, we often talk about plaque, the sticky, colorless substance that forms on your teeth and can have serious consequences if not properly managed. Plaque buildup is one of the leading causes of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. The good news is that with the right oral hygiene routine, plaque can be controlled. Let’s dive into what plaque is, how it affects your teeth, and how you can prevent it.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a thin, sticky film of bacteria that naturally forms on your teeth. It’s almost impossible to prevent plaque entirely, as it starts to accumulate as soon as you eat or drink. However, with consistent brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dentist in Woodbine, you can significantly reduce the plaque buildup that leads to oral health issues.
How Does Plaque Look?
Although plaque is mostly colorless, it can give your teeth a fuzzy or filmy appearance, making them feel coated. Over time, plaque can attract food particles and other debris, leading to discoloration. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which has a yellowish color. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque and requires professional cleaning by a dentist in Woodbine.
Plaque vs. Tartar: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between plaque and tartar is that plaque is soft and sticky, while tartar is hardened plaque that has been sitting on your teeth for days. Plaque turns into tartar through mineralization, and once tartar forms, it cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar buildup can make your teeth look yellow and cause bad breath. If left untreated, tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. To remove tartar, you’ll need a professional cleaning at our office.
The Harmful Effects of Plaque on Your Oral Health
When plaque is left to accumulate, it begins to release acids that damage tooth enamel, causing cavities. Plaque is also the main cause of gum disease, beginning with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums that leads to redness, swelling, and bleeding, especially when brushing or flossing. If not addressed, gingivitis can progress to more serious periodontal disease, which may result in tooth loss.
How to Prevent Plaque Buildup
The best way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup is by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes, making sure to reach all surfaces, including along the gumline where plaque is more likely to form. Flossing once a day is also crucial for removing plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush may not reach.
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, it’s important to visit your dentist in Woodbine regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. Professional dental cleanings ensure that any plaque or tartar buildup is thoroughly removed, keeping your smile healthy.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, don’t wait, schedule an appointment with Teitler Family Dental Care today. Our team is here to help you maintain a healthy smile, free of plaque and tartar. Contact us now to book your visit!