Plaque, Tartar and the Dangers of Gum Diseases
Practicing good oral hygiene does not just keep your teeth white and your smile radiant. It also prevents you from getting potentially dangerous gum diseases. Most people take brushing and flossing for granted, and things only become serious when they start to feel pain.
Plaque and Tartar
Although the two may seem similar, plaque and tartar are actually quite distinct from another. Plaque is a colourless but sticky substance that forms around your gum line and the surface of your teeth. It is made of bacterial residue and can cause cavities from forming, as well as halitosis and gingivitis.
Tartar is quite different; it is usually yellowish in colour and actually made of hardened plaque that builds up over time. It is very harmful to your mouth and may cause bleeding during brushing and more advanced forms of gum diseases, such as periodontitis. In the latter’s case, it causes gum inflammation and even loss of teeth.
Unfortunately, you cannot simply brush or floss tartar away unlike plaque due to its sheer toughness. You may even require surgery if it forms deep within your gum line.
Preventative Measures
The best way to prevent these two from ever forming is through regular brushing and flossing. Also, limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks you consume. Bacteria consume sugars as a form of energy, and eating or drinking too much will cause them to reproduce rapidly and make plaque more difficult to clean.
Finally, it is always a good idea to visit your dentist regularly if you feel that the plaque on your teeth and gums are becoming a serious problem.
At Warrendale Dental Care in Ross-On-Wye, we know that having a clean and healthy mouth is important. You not only maintain the freshness of your breath and the whiteness of your teeth, you avoid getting potentially dangerous gum diseases as well.
Visit our website at https://www.warrendaledental.co.uk/ for more information our treatments and services including Dental Implants.