A General Dentist Shares What You Should Know About Plaque and Tartar

General Dentist Prescott, AZ

General dentists are the best resource to refer to when it comes to plaque and tartar. They specialize in treating both, while also making an effort to educate patients on ways to prevent development to begin with. Thankfully, there are a lot of ways that general dentists can help patients avoid this from occurring. One way is to provide information that allows for a better understanding of the dangers.

Quick guide to plaque and tartar

Below is a quick overview of what a general dentist thinks is important to know about plaque and tartar. Reviewing this information may prove to be helpful to those who are not sure how harmful both can be.

The difference

Plaque is the start of a bacterial infection. It is colorless and sticks to the surface of the teeth like a film coating. General dentists state that plaque needs to be removed when it is still sticky and soft. Otherwise, it turns into tartar. Tartar is hard and sticks to the surface of the teeth, as well as the gum line, making it very difficult to remove. It also appears colorless, making it difficult to see or notice, which is why other symptoms may occur. Tartar must be addressed as it can result in tooth decay and even loss. 

Dangers

Plaque can be dangerous because it can turn into tartar, which is where the real damage can take place. Once plaque does turn into tartar, the effects can be detrimental, resulting in the need for a lot of treatment. General dentists typically treat tartar build-up with restorative procedures. If decay occurs, fillings or crowns may need to be placed. In some cases, tartar can also affect the gums, which may result in the need to undergo more serious procedures, such as scaling and root planing. Scaling and root planing involves scraping the gum line clean to get rid of any buildup. 

Prevention

Both plaque and tartar can easily be prevented if regular visits to the general dentist take place. Check-ups and cleaning should be done at least every six months, if not more. Additionally, a good oral hygiene routine every day is important as it will ensure that the teeth remain in good shape. Good oral hygiene includes brushing twice a day, flossing at least once, and rinsing with mouthwash a few times a week. 

Find out more from a general dentist

Those who want more information on plaque and tartar can talk directly with a general dentist. It is important to have a good understanding of both in order to maintain good oral health. When suffering from plaque and tartar, it is also necessary to visit a general dentist. An evaluation can be performed to determine what type of treatment is necessary. From there, the patient will know what to expect as far as timeline and improvement. Reach out today to schedule an appointment!

Request an appointment here: https://familydentistprescott.com or call Joseph A. Savoini D.M.D., P.C. at (928) 297-3040 for an appointment in our Prescott office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Prescott, AZ.

Recent Posts

When A General Dentist May Recommend A Dental Bridge

General dentists are responsible for restoring and replacing teeth that are lost due to decay or accidents. Unfortunately, the teeth are prone to both, making it so that treatment is necessary. A common treatment used in general dentistry for tooth restoration and replacement is a dental bridge. Having a dental bridge placed can make life…

What To Ask Your Dentist About A Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning is the perfect opportunity to catch up with your dentist. Yes really, catch up. Your average dentist loves it when their patients have healthy teeth that need little more than a light scrub. This is why preventative measures like routine checkups are so important.Patients with healthy teeth can spend the bulk of…

Four Benefits Of A Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning is a simple and non-invasive dental procedure in which plaque and tartar accumulation is scaled away and the teeth and gum line are thoroughly cleaned and polished. There are several notable benefits of this preventive dental procedure that patients should understand. The benefits of dental cleaning include the ability to brighten and clean…

How Preventive Dentistry Can Catch Signs Of Oral Cancer

Many people do not know that regular dental checkups are the most important preventive dentistry procedures against oral cancer. The dentist’s objective is to prevent and diagnose any issue as early as possible, when treatment is easier. Preventive dentistry is all about keeping the oral cavity healthy for a long time. Oral cancer screening is…

Recent Posts

Caring For Your Dental Bridge: Tips For Longevity

Caring For Your Dental Bridge: Tips For Longevity

A traditional dental bridge can replace up to three or four consecutive teeth on the same side of a dental arch. It is one of the most common dental replacements you can get. Knowing how to care for it can help maintain your new smile for a long time. Here are some tips for ensuring…

Why You Should Rest After A Tooth Extraction

Why You Should Rest After A Tooth Extraction

Undergoing a tooth extraction can be stressful. Dentists do everything they can to save natural teeth, but sometimes, removing the tooth is the way to restore oral health and prevent complications. After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions regarding aftercare to ensure quick and proper healing.After tooth extraction, patients do not exactly need to…