For some of us, it seems like plaque buildup occurs quicker and more severely than others. For the vast majority of us, this is simply an insecurity. Plaque and food buildup, which leads to hardened Tartar, is a completely natural and happens to almost all of us. If you feel that it is occurring more rapidly for you, you may be right. There are several things which lead to a prevalence of plaque buildup in one individual over another.
Reasons why Tartar may buildup faster
* Your Teeth- The shape and state of your teeth affects the way plague and tartar build. If you have broken or missing teeth, there are larger exposed areas for food and bacteria to congregate. If your teeth are overlapping, or crooked, there may be tighter spaces that brushes and floss simple cannot reach to remove the plaque.
* Gum Recession- Receding gums expose deeper crevices along the gumline where plaque and bacteria can fester. While this makes Tartar a concern, it also means the bacteria is closer to the gumline. If bacteria enters your gums, you risk developing advanced gum disease, infection, and tooth loss.
* Eating Habits- If you snack exclusively on carb or sugar heavy foods, sticky foods, processed, foods, or processed foods–you are going to be at a higher risk for dental cumulus. Think of Cheetos or potato chips; they are covered in sugary materials and they stick to the crevices of your teeth really bad. If you do not work to promptly remove them it will lead to plaque, bacteria, and Tartar.
* Poor Hygiene- The greatest predictor of Tartar buildup is poor hygiene. The process of plaque buildup is slow and methodical. You need to practice dental hygiene like clockwork to combat it. Brush after every meal, floss daily, and see your dentist.
How can I improve my Dental Hygiene?
Everyone has to work at this, it is not just you. We all have to be wary, and vigilant in the fight against plaque and Tartar. Begin by having a moment of honesty, how serious are you about this? Are you brushing everyday? Flossing Every day? When was your last dentist appointment? Follow these simple rules to drastically improve your dental health.
1. Brush- Brush twice a day, focusing after meals. Use a dentist recommended tooth paste. Ask your dentist if they recommend soft bristle or firm bristle for your teeth state. Work the paste around the teeth, and then use circular brushing motions to push debris away from the gums and off the tooth.
2. Floss- Floss every day. There is not better at home method to remove hard stuck food stuff, bacteria, plaque, and even some Tartar. Pull the floss taut and gently work it through the teeth down to the gumline, using back-and-forth motions to remove debris.
3. Mouthwash- Mouthwash is the quickest and easiest intervention for many. Grab some and swish it around larger surface areas like the cheeks and under the tongue. Swish it through the teeth to help with a little antibacterial enforcement.
4. Make a Dentist Appointment- Many people are scared of their dentist. We can’t say why–dentists are some of the nicest and most concerned people around. They dedicate their lives to improving your life and protecting your health. There is no greater expert on your dental health than a dentist.