Trinity Guide To Plaque, Calculus, And Cavities

General Dentistry Trinity

Hi. Welcome to our Trinity area dental blog! I find that many of my general dentistry patients in Trinity and the surrounding areas get a couple of dental terms mixed up. Today, I would like to clarify the differences between plaque, calculus, and cavities.

Plaque is a film that covers teeth – a sticky layer of bacteria. You can remove plaque through daily brushing and flossing. However, if it isn’t removed it can build up and harden into calculus.

Calculus, also known as tartar, is hardened plaque that also accumulates minerals from food and saliva. Regular check-ups and cleanings with your Trinity dentist are necessary to remove tartar as well as hard-to-reach plaque.

Plaque and calculus are not cavities, but they can lead to cavities and gum disease. A cavity is basically a hole in the tooth caused by decay. Because plaque and calculus contain bacteria, the bacteria release acids which accelerate tooth decay and eventually lead to more cavities.

A good rule of thumb for Trinity dental patients is this: Avoid plaque to avoid calculus and tartar to avoid tooth decay to avoid cavities. Got it?

I hope you’ve found this helpful, and if you’re in the Trinity area and are in need of quality dental care, call our office at 727-789-1980 to schedule an appointment today.

Our modern staff would love to answer any questions you have about our services, including cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and veneers.

Prestige Dentistry
1641 Davenport Dr
Trinity, FL 34655
727-789-1980
https://www.prestige-dentistry.com/