If you notice a small piece of white material coming from your mouth, then you might start to panic. Are your teeth falling out? (Hint: They’re probably not.) The most common issues that can cause this are a chipped tooth or tartar. Fortunately, there are easy dental solutions for both of these issues. Learn more about these issues and their treatment options below.
What is Tartar?
Tartar is a hard substance that is made from plaque. Plaque is the bacteria that live in your mouth. If this plaque is not removed quickly, then it hardens into tartar. Tartar is cleaned away by the dentist during your dental cleanings. Most people don’t even notice it. However, you might notice it flaking or chipping away sometimes.
Bonus Tips to Help Control Tartar
Follow the tips mentioned below to avoid tartar buildup.
- Brush your teeth twice a day daily. Make sure you brush for 2 minutes because scrubbing your teeth for 3 seconds won’t prevent tartar or plaque. Also, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and try to reach out to the hard-to-reach surfaces.
- Choose fluoride toothpaste with the tartar-control feature.
- Floss between your teeth daily. No matter how good you’re with a toothbrush, it’s important to use dental floss to keep tartar out of hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse daily with an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill plaque-causing bacteria.
- Avoid excessive consumption of starchy and sugary foods. This will help you avoid harmful acids that may feed the bacteria in your mouth.
- Avoid smoking. There’s conclusive evidence that smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products can help develop tartar.
Only a dental professional can remove tartar from your teeth. So if you already suffer from tartar buildup, please feel free to visit Cypress Family Dentist
What Causes Cracked Teeth?
Tooth enamel is an extremely hard surface. However, injuries can still happen. Teeth can crack due to trauma to the face or biting down on a hard substance. For some people, a chipped tooth is a surprise. For other people, a chipped tooth comes with a lot of pain.
So… Is It a Chipped Tooth or Tartar?
Both tooth enamel and tartar are white, hard substances that come from the mouth. So how can you tell the difference if you notice a piece of white material? Gently examining the tooth is the best way to tell. If enamel is missing, then there will be a small area of roughness on the tooth. Finally, give your dentist a call. They can check your tooth enamel, clean away excess tartar, and make repairs if you need them.
Dental Care in Cypress
The Smile Artisans are here to provide you the best dental care in Cypress and surrounding areas. Our caring and professional team will evaluate your mouth and help you choose the best treatment. We also offer fluoride, sealants, and professional cleanings. These treatments can help your teeth stay strong and healthy in the long run. Call us or explore our website to learn more about what we offer.