If it’s been awhile since you’ve had a dental exam at a Barrington-area clinic, then there’s a good chance you have plaque and tartar accumulation on your teeth. Over time, plaque and tartar can compromise your dental health by increasing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. As you’ll learn when you watch this video, plaque is a sticky substance that can coat your teeth.
This cosmetic dentistry expert explains that plaque is mostly made up of bacteria that release acids. These acids wear away the tooth enamel, leaving your pearly whites vulnerable to tooth decay. If not removed promptly, plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar irritates the gums and causes them to become tender and swollen, which is the beginning stage of gum disease. The dentist featured here offers some tips for protecting your oral health from the effects of plaque and tartar and explains what your dentist can do for you to help.