Many people know that plaque and tartar are bad for your teeth and gums, but many do not know the difference between the two. To achieve optimal oral health, at Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, we want our patients to know the difference and why knowing is important.
Plaque and tartar happen when you do not brush your teeth properly or you frequently miss a hard-to-reach area with your brush. They are what cause cavities and gum disease. It can also lead to bad breath. While they are both bad for you, they are different. Well, technically they are the same, but in different stages.
Plaque forms on your teeth within hours of brushing. It is a thin, sticky substance created from the food we eat, the drinks we drink, and even our saliva. It coats our teeth. Plaque is easily brushed and flossed away. Since it forms just hours after brushing, this is why it is important to brush your teeth at least two times per day.
Tartar is what forms when plaque is not removed. Plaque will begin to crystalize and it hardens on the surface of your teeth. At this stage, it is only able to be removed by a dentist. Tartar can lead to gum disease, and since only a dentist can remove it, you do not want it to form in the first place.
Remember to brush your teeth two times per day. If a third time is possible, squeeze it in! Also, remember to floss every day to get in between your teeth. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA office, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com.
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