Good oral health hygiene is essential for a healthy smile and for leading a healthy life. But two common offenders — plaque and tartar — frequently sabotage all but the best dental care regimens. Learning how plaque and tartar build-up affect oral health can help Orange County residents take proactive steps against plaque and tartar development in the mouth. Let’s take a deeper look at the consequences of plaque and tartar and how you can fight against them as recommended by a dentist in Orange County.

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a film of bacteria that is sticky and colorless and is constantly forming on your teeth. It forms when food particles combine with the natural bacteria present in your mouth. High-sugar and starchy foods, in particular, give the bacteria what they want, creating acids that can erode your teeth and gums over the years.

What is Tartar?

It is hardened plaque, known as tartar (or dental calculus), that builds up if plaque is not sufficiently removed. It usually shows up as a yellow or brown film on your teeth and can be particularly visible just above the gumline. Plaque can be removed through brushing and flossing, but tartar needs to be cleaned by a dentist or hygienist.

The Impact of Plaque and Tartar on Oral Health

• Tooth Decay: Plaque harbors bacteria that ferment sugars from food and beverages into acids. These acids then eat into the enamel, the outer layer of the teeth, causing cavities. Without treatment, the decay can spread deeper into the tooth and lead to pain, infection, and ultimately tooth loss.
• Gum Disease: Plaque accumulation on and near the gumline can irritate and inflame the gums, triggering gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. Symptoms may include red, swollen , and bleeding gums. If tartar develops and gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can destroy the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis): Bacteria in plaque and tartar also have bad-smelling compounds that can cause chronic bad breath. Regular plaque and tartar removal is important to keep your breath fresh.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Gum recession — when the gum tissue pulls back to reveal the roots of your teeth — can result from plaque and tartar build-up. That can render your teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks.

How To Prevent Plaque And Tartar Buildup

The bright side is that plaque and tartar accumulation is largely preventable with good oral hygiene and routine dental visits. Here are a few good ways to do that:

• Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day: Brush thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth and spend at least two minutes brushing each time.
• Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth and below the gumline, which toothbrushes cannot reach.
• Rinse With An Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Using mouthwash can help decrease bacteria and keep plaque from forming. Seek out products that contain fluoride or antibacterial agents.

You do need to visit the dentist if you see any plaque or tartar build-up, including visible deposits, swollen gums, or persistent bad breath. However, there are a variety of patients experiencing these conditions with other specialists in Orange County who have the appropriate hardware and education to help correct these.

Plaque and tarter may not seem that big of a deal but can have a huge effect on oral health. Fortunately, by learning their effects and preventing their occurrence, you can sustain a healthy and glowing smile. In Orange County, regular dental visits and effective home oral care are crucial to keeping these dental adversaries away. So take action now, and do not let plaque and tartar ruin your oral well-being!