Cleaning your teeth through brushing and flossing is essential to maintaining good oral health. This is because when someone does not do this on a regular basis, it can cause a buildup of dental plaque and tartar. When someone goes for regular dental cleanings, Trinity residents should know it is to prevent these two things from ever becoming a problem for them. But even if a patient knows that they are going for a clean for this reason, they may not know what plaque and tartar are, and why it is so important for them to keep up with regular brushing and cleanings.
What is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is something we all have, even for those who are very good at cleaning their teeth regularly. Some scientists and dental professionals refer to plaque as a biofilm because at the microscopic level, there are many living microbes that are encased in a polymer layer. They feed off of sugars and produce acids, which can cause cavities and gingivitis that is trying to be prevented with regular dental cleanings. Trinity residents who are trying to clean the plaque off of their teeth better should know that it is a colorless or pale-yellow film that may feel slimy or fuzzy to the individual.
What is Dental Tartar?
Dental tartar can also be called dental calculus, but essentially it is a more severe form of dental plaque that has built up. While plaque is more of a slimy film, tartar is often crusty deposits that can be discolored and stained. These deposits are so strong that they cannot be cleaned with brushing alone and need to be addressed by a dentist during regular dental cleanings. Trinity residents need to be aware of the complications associated with too much tartar build up. Not only can it cause tooth decay and gum disease like dental plaque can, but it can also be an issue by causing minor problems like bad breath.
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Anchor Dental Care*