Flossing Prevents Tartar Buildup

It is not easy to get rid of food deposits by simply rinsing and brushing your teeth after a meal. Food deposits can lead to tartar buildup followed by tooth decay. The solution to this problem is flossing. It can go a long way in cleaning your mouth and preventing tartar buildup.

If you want to know more about how to prevent tartar buildup, visit Smiles Ahead Family Dentistry in Columbus, Ohio.

Tartar and Dental Disease

Below is the sequence in which tartar is formed:

• Formation of Plaque 

Small particles of food that stick to our teeth (on the teeth, near the gums, and between the teeth) form soft deposits. This is an ideal playground for bacteria, which feed on the food particles and form a sticky film called plaque. 

• From Plaque to Tartar 

If not removed, plaque hardens to form tartar. Tartar buildup and the subsequent proliferating bacteria eat away at the teeth lining or the enamel. The entire process of plaque turning to tartar takes up to two weeks.

• Flossing and Tartar

The small crevices between the teeth are the places that are most difficult to clean. However, these very places are a breeding ground for germs. This is especially true of two regions – the inner sides of the lower front teeth and the area between the back teeth or molars. 

It is quite difficult to turn your brush and clean these areas effectively. This is where flossing becomes important. It helps clean hard-to-reach areas and ensures that any plaque buildup is removed, preventing further decay and gum disease.

Tips for Flossing 

Flossing once a day is a good habit. If there is any food stuck between your teeth, especially something fibrous or some meat, it is best to floss right away. You don’t have to wait until evening to do so. 

In addition, make sure you change your floss as required and avoid using frayed flossing material.

If you are not flossing regularly, you could develop gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums, and a host of other problems. So, floss your teeth regularly and avoid such oral health problems.

For more tips on flossing and ways to prevent tartar buildup, call Smiles Ahead Family Dentistry at (614) 818-9420 to schedule an appointment. You can also find us at 2456 Home Acre Dr, Columbus, Ohio 43231.