What Is Plaque and Tartar?

When you hear about why brushing your teeth is important, you hear a lot about plaque and tartar. Knowing what plaque and tartar are and how to protect your teeth from these substances. Working with your dentist in Castle Rock, CO, can help. At Castle Valley Dental, we recommend that our patients visit the dentist twice annually to remove plaque and tartar. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a sticky, clear, or whitish substance that consists of a combination of food particles and saliva. Plaque sticks to teeth after eating and can gather on tooth enamel near the gum line. Plaque can often be removed with good brushing habits.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar is a very hard substance. Tartar is what plaque turns into if it’s left on the teeth for too long. Tartar is often dark yellow in color. It can’t be removed with simple brushing; it needs to be scraped away by the dentist. Tartar can cause gum recession, gather at or even below the gum line, and cause stains on the teeth.

How Can I Protect My Teeth?

You can protect your teeth from plaque and tartar by brushing your teeth twice daily with a good toothbrush. You don’t need a toothbrush with stiff bristles to get rid of plaque and tartar; a soft bristle toothbrush is enough. Replace your toothbrush every three months to ensure that your toothbrush will do a good enough job.

If possible, use an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are better for getting rid of plaque and keeping tartar off your teeth. Flossing once per day can also help keep plaque and tartar off your teeth. Have your dentist show you how to floss properly to ensure you’re doing your best to eliminate plaque.

Make Your Annual Appointment

See your dentist twice per year for tooth examinations and tooth cleanings in Castle Rock, CO. During your visit, your dental professional will remove this from your teeth and help polish the tooth enamel to prevent more plaque and tartar from accumulating there. Need an appointment with Castle Valley Dental? Call today to get on the schedule.