The Trouble With Tartar

the-trouble-with-tartarBrushing and flossing every day can enable you to remove plaque and food particles that have stuck to your teeth. Unfortunately, these habits alone are not capable of clearing away tartar. Tartar – a form of plaque that has hardened over time – will resist these actions. If you want to make your teeth free of tartar, you will need to have a dental cleaning performed by your hygienist. Your hygienist’s tools and training have equipped them with the ability to clear away tartar. That removal can protect you from problems like tooth decay and gum disease. You receive this thorough cleaning each time you go in for a professional dental exam.

How Does Tartar Form?

Tartar forms when portions of plaque that are not removed during brushing and flossing sessions harden. Once this takes place, the substance will cling to your teeth even when you work to clean them.

Other Benefits You Gain When You Keep Up With Your Preventive Dental Appointments

Preventive dental appointments make it easier to avoid major dental issues. For instance, you can catch tooth decay early, and have it removed before an infection causes internal problems. When those internal problems occur, you can find yourself scheduling a root canal treatment. You should recognize that a trip to the dentist that results in no active concerns is not a wasted trip. Your dentist may not find issues that need to be remedied, but they can counsel you if they see worrying signs. Your routine dental cleaning will make it easier to continue to be cavity-free going forward.