We all know it’s important to brush and floss our teeth. We’re told these smart oral health care activities will prevent tartar build up. We’ve gone on to tell our kids the same thing. But do you know what tartar is? Why tartar is bad for your oral health? And what it does to your teeth?
As one of year best dentists in Toronto, Dr. Maryam Adibfar wanted to shed some light on the whole tartar topic. So let’s take a closer look!
What is Tartar Anyway?
Even if you brush daily, floss regularly and rinse with mouthwash every evening, your mouth will still have some bacteria in it. It’s inevitable. That bacteria will actually mix with food byproducts and other chemicals to create plaque build up. You know that film that covers your teeth? That’s plaque. It can be found all over your teeth, along the gum lines and in between your teeth.
Plaque can be disastrous to your teeth. If it isn’t cleaned away, the acids can harm your enamel and even cause cavities. Removing plaque can also help prevent tooth decay.
But when that plaque hardens, it turns into tartar. Plaque can become tartar is as little as 24 hours. When it forms, only a dentists or dental hygienist can successfully remove it. It can also place your teeth’s health and beauty in jeopardy.
How Does Tartar Hurt Your Oral Health
Tartar can have a big impact on your teeth and overall oral health in a variety of ways, including:
- Making it difficult to brush and floss, which can make your teeth more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay
- Irritation to your gums
- Weakened enamel
- Progressive gum disease, which can cause significant oral health issues that are very difficult to reverse
How to Control Tartar Buildup and Protect Your Teeth
Getting rid of tartar buildup can be very difficult. That means it’s in your best interest to prevent tartar build up from ever happening. Here’s how to do it:
1. Brush regularly: We mean twice a day for two minutes at s time. A quick brush won’t help remove plaque or prevent tartar. Make sure you’re using the right toothbrush and going after the hard to reach area like your back molars.
2. Jump on the Flossing Train: Even if you’re an expert toothbrusher, flossing is critical. Using dental floss is really the only way to remove plaque from between your teeth and keep those hard to reach places from becoming tartar hotspots.
3. Use Tartar-Controlling Toothpaste: Selecting toothpaste with fluoride that can help control tartar by preventing plaque from hardening is a great way to boost your oral health. The fluoride can also help improve your enamel’s strength.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Diet: Harmful bacteria loves sugar. When these bacteria come into contact with high-sugar foods, they release acids that lead to plaque and tartar buildup. We don’t recommend giving up your favourite snacks or meals, but it is important to limit keep moderation in mind. Don’t over indulge or make high-sugar foods a staple of your diet. We also recommend brushing or drinking water snacks your meals or snacks to limit the formation of plaque.
5. Rely on Your Dentist: Once tartar has formed on your teeth, only a trusted and experienced dental professional can successfully remove it. That’s why it’s so important to keep up with your regular dental appointments. Those cleanings and reviews provide your dentist with the opportunity to remove plaque and prevent further oral health issues that may occur in the future.
Next Steps
Do you have questions about how to reduce tartar build up or want to schedule checkup, teeth cleaning or routine exam? Contact us directly! Our team looks forward to seeing you.
And don’t forget to follow Dr. Maryam Adibfar on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter for the latest dental tips, tricks and advice!
A BONUS Just for You!
When you refer a friend, family member or colleague to our office, you’ll receive a $25 gift card to a favourite local coffee shop.
Simply contact our Davisville dental team directly to make a referral! Now that you know how to combat stains, you can enjoy your coffee or tea to the fullest.