DENTAL TOPICS by Dr. Charles M. & Dr. Chas M. Carpenter PLAQUE VERSUS TARTAR We know that plaque and tartar are to be avoided, but what's the difference between the two? Knowing the differences can help you take better preventative care of your teeth. Plaque constantly builds up as a clear or yellow film on your teeth. It is a collection of bacteria inside your mouth that binds together to create more bacteria, leading to more plaque. The best way to prevent plaque buildup is daily brushing and flossing. If plaque is not removed, bacteria and minerals continue to collect and calcify into tartar (hardened plaque). The only way to remove tartar is through a professional teeth cleaning. Tartar can stain teeth, increase trapped plaque, and lead to gingivitis (gum disease). Our many years of experience have taught us that prevention is a significant factor in maintaining good oral health, which is a strong contributor to better overall health as well. If you are new to the Forty Fort area and are looking for a family dentist, CARPENTER DENTAL would like to extend a welcome and an invitation to visit our office. We know how difficult it can be to find qualified professionals without reliable references. However, we feel that with our approach and our commitment to excellence, we have something unique to offer at 1086 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort. Call us at 570- 331-0909 for an appointment. P.S. Chronic exposure to the bacteria in plaque inflames the gums and leads to gingivitis and eventually periodontitis Dr. Charles M. & Dr. Chas M. Carpenter Carpenter Dental 1086 Wyoming Avenue Forty Fort, PA (570) 331-0909 Elaine Carpenter RDH www.carpenterdental.com DENTAL TOPICS by Dr. Charles M. & Dr. Chas M. Carpenter PLAQUE VERSUS TARTAR We know that plaque and tartar are to be avoided , but what's the difference between the two ? Knowing the differences can help you take better preventative care of your teeth . Plaque constantly builds up as a clear or yellow film on your teeth . It is a collection of bacteria inside your mouth that binds together to create more bacteria , leading to more plaque . The best way to prevent plaque buildup is daily brushing and flossing . If plaque is not removed , bacteria and minerals continue to collect and calcify into tartar ( hardened plaque ) . The only way to remove tartar is through a professional teeth cleaning . Tartar can stain teeth , increase trapped plaque , and lead to gingivitis ( gum disease ) . Our many years of experience have taught us that prevention is a significant factor in maintaining good oral health , which is a strong contributor to better overall health as well . If you are new to the Forty Fort area and are looking for a family dentist , CARPENTER DENTAL would like to extend a welcome and an invitation to visit our office . We know how difficult it can be to find qualified professionals without reliable references . However , we feel that with our approach and our commitment to excellence , we have something unique to offer at 1086 Wyoming Ave. , Forty Fort . Call us at 570 331-0909 for an appointment . P.S. Chronic exposure to the bacteria in plaque inflames the gums and leads to gingivitis and eventually periodontitis Dr. Charles M. & Dr. Chas M. Carpenter Carpenter Dental 1086 Wyoming Avenue Forty Fort , PA ( 570 ) 331-0909 Elaine Carpenter RDH www.carpenterdental.com