Dental Plaque and Tartar: Keeping Your Mouth Free of Buildups by Visiting Your Lakewood Ranch Dentist

Sometimes, no matter how serious about brushing and flossing your teeth regularly every day, plaque and bacteria can still build on some surfaces of your teeth. This can especially happen in hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Dental plaque constantly forms on your teeth, no matter how you try to get rid of it. However, too much plaque and failure to eliminate it can result in concerning dental issues that require the attention of a dentist who specializes in family and cosmetic dentistry in Lakewood Ranch. Should you see a dentist to get rid of plaque and tartar? Is there anything you can do at home?

 Plaque vs. Tartar

Plaque forms first and hardens into tartar. But once it hardens, it will not be possible to remove it at home. As plaque rests atop your gum line, it can cause gum disease. When the plaque is not removed, it can form into tartar, which can irritate your gums further, possibly causing tooth loss and serious gum disease. Also, tartar smells foul and is unpleasant to look at. 

Preventing the Buildup of Plaque

You need to brush your teeth for two minutes twice every day and floss them once every day using fluoride toothpaste. This eliminates plaque from your teeth surfaces and between hidden surfaces. Also, this can prevent the development of gum disease. Complete your oral hygiene with mouthwash, which helps neutralize and eliminate the mouth bacteria that contribute to the buildup of plaque. Also, make sure to visit your dentist twice every year for cleanings and checkups. 

Tartar Removal

Tartar cannot be removed with just a toothbrush. Removal requires the use of a specialized dental tool, so it has to be performed at your dentist’s office. In-office plaque and tartar removal can lighten your teeth stains. Thus, if you are worried about undesirable teeth buildup, book a dental appointment as soon as possible. 

Dental Problems Caused by Tartar

Tartar and plaque buildup can result in a lot of dental health problems, such as:

• Dental cavities. When not treated, plaque and tartar can erode the enamel of your teeth and result in cavities. When you visit your dentist, your mouth will be examined for dental cavities. If you have cavities, your dentist can fix them with fillings.
• Gum disease. The buildup of plaque and tartar can cause gum inflammation and gum disease. In serious cases, the buildup can result in receding gums and serious, irreversible gum disease. 
• Tooth decay or tooth loss. In serious cases, tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay or tooth loss. When the damage continues, tooth extraction may be necessary.