Unchecked dental plaque and tartar can cause significant issues in your mouth, affecting your teeth and jaw. At Middletown Commons Family Dental, we aim to empower you with the knowledge to effectively care for your smile. Continue reading to grasp how you can manage plaque and tartar on your teeth.

Plaque & Tartar

Plaque is a sticky bacterial biofilm that clings to your teeth. The older plaque gets, the more disease causing it gets. Further, if plaque is not removed timely, it hardens into tartar (also called calculus). This bacteria can cause bad breath, gum disease, and cavities.

Tartar, a hardened form of plaque, provides additional surface area for bacteria to adhere to and is also highly porous. Its porosity means it can absorb stains from substances like wine, tea, coffee, and other pigmented foods more readily.

At-Home Oral Care

Effective at-home care is the first defense against cavities. Brushing twice a day and regular flossing are the cornerstones of removing plaque and preventing tartar formation. Despite these efforts, the presence of bacteria in the mouth means some plaque and tartar accumulation is normal.

In-Office Oral Care

Since bacteria are constantly multiplying, professional intervention is necessary. Tartar, once calcified, can only be removed with specialized dental tools during professional cleanings. Regular dental visits allow for the management of tartar accumulation and the prevention of potential oral health complications such as bone loss, tooth loss, and gum recession.

Comfortable Family Dental Care in Louisville, KY

Combining thorough oral care at home with routine dental cleanings is the most effective way to manage plaque and tartar. If it’s time for your regular check-up, don’t hesitate to contact Middletown Commons Family Dental to schedule your next appointment.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0