Effects of Tartar Buildup

If you practice poor oral hygiene, you are likely to develop plaque buildup, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth along the gum line. Plaque contains bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease and when left untreated, can lead to tartar buildup that only our doctors at Vista Dental will be able to remove.

Because tartar is spongy, it absorbs stains easily. The most common sign of this mineral is a yellow or brown deposit between the lower front teeth or at the gum line. Therefore, if you are a coffee or tea drinker, or a smoker, it is especially important that you prevent tartar buildup. Proper brushing, especially with an American Dental Association (ADA) approved toothpaste, and flossing is necessary to reduce both plaque and tartar buildup. The process for removing tartar is called scaling. During a scaling procedure, the doctor or a hygienist will use special instruments to remove it.  

If you have questions regarding dental health, oral hygiene, or periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.vistadentalmh.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Vista Dental located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 4Y2, Canada, call 403-548-7077. 

Gum Disease: Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated long enough it will advance to the next stage of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild infection of the gums, while periodontitis is more serious. Periodontitis begins as inflammation and gets worse over a period of time. To treat periodontitis, our doctors at Vista Dental may need to perform a deep cleaning of the gums to get rid of the condition.

In the early stages of periodontitis, the gums will begin to pull away from the teeth. Once the periodontal tissue is gone, it doesn’t come back, so prevention is critical. If your oral hygiene routine is inadequate, your risk of developing periodontal disease increases. In advanced periodontitis, the gums, bones, and surrounding tissues that support the teeth are destroyed. To receive a proper diagnosis of your oral health status, visit our doctors at Vista Dental for a routine checkup.

If you have questions regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.vistadentalmh.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Vista Dental located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 4Y2, Canada, call 403-548-7077. 

Plaque and Periodontal Disease

If you lick your teeth right now and feel a layer of film on your enamel, it may be time to head to the sink (or the dentist) to brush and floss your teeth. As plaque continues to accumulate, it feeds off of the food and beverages that are consumed on a daily basis. When plaque latches onto the teeth, it can begin to wear down enamel. To prevent periodontal disease in any form, it’s important to visit our doctors at Vista Dental for routine cleanings and oral exams.

If your oral care routine isn’t up to par, plaque may be lingering on or in-between your teeth. Because the toothbrush can’t reach all of the built-up bacteria, you’ll increase your risk of developing tooth decay if you don’t floss and rinse with American Dental Association (ADA) approved mouthwash. If you notice inflammation, gums that are sensitive to hot and cold beverages, or gums that are tender to touch, schedule an appointment with us to diagnose and fix the problem.

If you have questions regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.vistadentalmh.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Vista Dental located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 4Y2, Canada, call 403-548-7077.