One of the main reasons why you should visit your dentist regularly is that it helps in removal of bacteria that have been left in the mouth after brushing and flossing. Tartar results from the accumulation of plaque which is commonly formed from a mix of proteins and other food by-products. The food acids can highly damage the enamel thus leading to teeth cavities. These acids can later lead to gum infection. One of the major ways of preventing you from getting permanent tooth decay is by removing the plaque as often as possible. You should not let it accumulate as this may lead to tartar that can only be removed by a dentist.
Since it is hard to brush and floss with the presence of tartar, the end result is cavities and tooth decay. As the accumulation of tartar increases, it worsens your gum condition and results in diseases. Lanes & Associates, reputable and experienced dentistry in Durham, recommend on the following ways that you can control the formation of tartar.
Choose your toothbrush carefully; toothbrush contributes greatly to your oral health. According to research, electronic powered toothbrushes work more efficiently in removing the plaque than the manual toothbrushes. However, regardless of your choice of a toothbrush, you should ensure that it is approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Watch your diet; starchy and sugary foods often trigger bacteria in your mouth that may contribute to the formation of plaque. It is important to eat healthily and limit the number of sugars in your food which also includes snacks. However, this does not mean that you have to completely forego sugary food you only need to reduce the number of times that you consume it. You should brush and drink plenty of water after meals.
Go for tartar-control toothpaste with fluoride; a toothpaste containing fluoride can prevent the plaque from hardening to tartar. Fluoride is also very important in preventing the damage of the enamel. Reputable dentists recommend the use of products that have triclosan that fights the bacteria in plaque.
You should brush and floss regularly; brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for removing any plaque that may be forming. It is recommended that you should brush at least twice a day. Duration of the brushing may mean nothing if you are brushing well. Also, no matter how good you brush, the only way you can remove the plaque before it forms tartar is through flossing.
As said earlier, once tartar is formed, it can only be removed by a dentist. It is thus recommended that you should visit your dentist every six months to remove any tartar and plaque that may have formed. There are many reputable dentists that you may visit every now and then. After all, perfect oral health is very crucial in enhancing your confidence.
