What is Plague? Dr. Beata A. Carlson & Associates educates their patients on Plague and the key to healthy smiles and overall health!
When it comes to keeping the smile healthy, many Clearwater, Florida patients know the importance of brushing and flossing. However, did you know that it also includes regular visits with the dentist? Do you know that taking care of your teeth will contribute to a better, healthier body overall? Dr. Beata A. Carlson & Associates and her team at Natural Dentistry is a professional who educates her patients on ways to keep their smiles free from tooth decay and periodontal disease.
What is plaque?
Many patients interested in improving their smile health will learn that plaque development can lead to cavities and gum disease. However, what is plaque? Our Clearwater, Florida, holistic dentists talk about plaque and its adverse effects. Plaque is bacteria that forms a film over the teeth and gums. It develops after eating certain foods that produce acids, including sugars and starches; after eating food with sugars and starches, including candy, cookies, bread, and cereal, bacteria bond with them and create this unwanted film over the natural tooth enamel and the gum tissues. When plaque remains on the teeth for an extended period, it can harden and form into tartar and calculus. It can also “eat away” the natural tooth enamel and gum tissues. This leads to bleeding gums, swelling gums, redness, irritation, and cavities on the teeth. If left undiagnosed and untreated, patients can experience the later stages of periodontitis, which causes the recession of gum tissue, the loss of jawbone, and even the future loss of adult teeth.
What can be done to protect the smile from damage?
Plaque is just one aspect of an individual’s oral health that needs to be monitored. There are several ways patients can keep their smiles healthy and avoid problems that might become costly and damaging to their teeth and gums. Here are a few recommendations for great overall oral health habits:
- Brush the teeth after every meal with an electric toothbrush as recommended by our doctors and hygienist; use non-toxic fluoride-free toothpaste.
- Flossing removes food particles between teeth that are not removed with brushing alone. You can also use a Waterpik water flosser.
- Schedule a dental visit every three to six months. Our dental team will provide thorough teeth cleaning and an oral health exam during this in-office visit.
- Follow a nutrient-rich diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Request time to speak to Dr. Beata A. Carlson & Associates about plaque and how they can help you have the smile you deserve!
Now is the time to connect with Dr. Beata A. Carlson & Associates at Natural Dentistry to discuss your needs. We are open to new and returning patients in the community who are seeking the best in general, cosmetic, and restorative care with a biocompatible and holistic touch.
Call 727-888-6929 to request an appointment at the office, conveniently located at 1825 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33765.
