Neglecting your oral health can lead to different issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. While teeth brushing and flossing can help maintain good oral health, seeing your family dentist in Southfield, MI is vital in preventing dangerous and painful oral health issues. These issues include the development of plaque and tartar.
What to Know About Dental Plaque and Tartar
Plaque forms from food debris and the bacteria that food deposits. Sugary foods tend to cause more plague than other types of foods. Plaque collects around your gum line, leaving your gums sensitive and inflamed. When left untreated, the plaque can lead to severe teeth and gum damage. Plaque can cause tooth loss and gum bleeding. Getting rid of plaque is easier with constant tooth brushing and flossing. But it becomes a problem when it becomes tartar.
Tartar causes tooth discoloration, gum disease, and dental cavities. Also, it is more difficult to eliminate than plaque. Only professional dental cleaning can address tartar.
How to Get Rid of Plaque and Tartar
Plaque and tartar can cause serious mouth damage, but they are treatable. The sooner they are eliminated the less damage they cause. Before damage has started, you must start taking care of your teeth. Here are the best practices to keep your mouth free of plaque and tartar:
- Regular brushing and flossing. Teeth brushing and flossing regularly are key to keeping your teeth healthy. This can eliminate plaque before it turns into tartar. Just ensure you brush your teeth properly and for at least two minutes each time. Replace your toothbrush after three months of use to ensure it can still clean your teeth properly.
- In-office visits. Seeing your dentist every six months for dental exams and cleanings helps fight the formation of plaque and tartar. In-office cleanings will target areas that are not easy to reach on your own. If you have developed tartar, professional teeth cleaning can get rid of it properly. Additionally, regular dental examinations let your dentist notice possible issues before they become serious.
- Sugar intake reduction. Tartar buildup can lead to side effects like sore, damaged or loose teeth, and bleeding gums. If you have experienced these issues, a diet change is vital. Sweet food leaves behind sugar on teeth. Brushing may not be enough to prevent the formation of plaque if you tend to consume sugary foods frequently. To reduce your risk of developing tartar, reduce your consumption of anything sugary.