Have you noticed a substance that may build up along your gumline and teeth? Does it typically come off when you brush, floss or if you scrape it gently? It could be a colorless, sticky film of bacteria and sugars known as plaque, which is continually forming on your teeth.
Your mouth is the natural home to many kinds of bacteria that could collect on your tongue, teeth and gumline. Plaque, which is completely normal and our dentists even expects to see it, often begins at the gumline. When that bacteria combines with sugar, it could produce acids that, if not removed, could eventually eat through the enamel on your teeth and form a cavity.
Additionally, if plaque is permitted to remain on your teeth it could harden develop into tartar, a calcified form of plaque. Once it has calcified, it can become much more difficult to remove, and you may need Dr. Christopher Hall’s help.
How you can prevent plaque buildup
A good way that can help stop plaque buildup and could keep it from becoming tartar is to practice proper dental hygiene. To do this, our dentists may recommend for you to brush at least twice a day and floss once daily. You could limit your sugary and starchy foods which might help as it can reduce the bacteria’s food supply. A piece of sugar-free gum may be beneficial as it could increase your saliva production, which can naturally clean your mouth.
If you would like help with your dental health in Bozeman, Montana, please call Hays Dental Group, LLC to schedule an appointment at 406-586-2117 today. Our number one concern is the health of your smile.