I think you might already know where we’re going with this question. As a general dental practice in Flagstaff Arizona, our answer at Country Club Dental is a resounding yes! But why? You may brush after every meal and floss each day. But there is a little gremlin called tartar that has a way of sneaking up and causing a whole host of issues that could wreak havoc on your beautiful smile. So what is tartar, and why should you place importance on your biannual dental cleanings?
The Difference Between Plaque and Tartar
We’d like to make a distinction between plaque and tartar. There is a lot of talk about plaque and its contribution to gum disease and cavities. And rightly so: plaque is that sticky substance composed of harmful bacteria that clings to your teeth. When you brush and floss properly, you can successfully rid your mouth of the majority of plaque. However, the likelihood that you will miss certain spots over time is high, and it only takes 24 to 72 hours for plaque to harden into tartar.
What Tartar Buildup Does to Your Teeth and Gums
When tartar builds up above and below the gumline, it can impede your brushing and flossing, making it difficult to get to those hard-to-reach places between the teeth and around the gumline. In addition, tartar buildup above the gumline puts you at a higher risk for progressive gum disease, ultimately leading to periodontitis.
Here is the kicker about tartar: once it’s formed, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning. And that’s the real answer to the burning question about the necessity for biannual dental cleanings.
Don’t Forego Your Biannual Dental Cleanings!
We know you want your smile to be bright and brilliant for a lifetime. That means investing the time and care it takes to accomplish this goal. When you come and see us at Country Club Dental in Flagstaff for your biannual dental cleanings and checkups, our commitment is to leave you with a smile that is both functional and beautiful! So why wait? Schedule your cleaning today.
