Tartar Quiz: What Do You Know?

When you walk through the dental hygiene aisle, you might see a lot of products offering to provide tartar control. While this sounds like something you should probably consider and most likely need, that doesn’t mean that you know what tartar actually is, why it’s so significant, or what you should be doing about it. Not to worry! Our quiz will either reveal that you know more than you’re aware of or it will fill in the facts you’re lacking, so you can protect your oral health.

Quiz Questions: True or False?

1. True or False: Tartar and plaque are two words that we use to describe the very same substance in your mouth.
2. True or False: When you end up with tartar in your mouth that you do not remove (it’s removed during dental cleanings at our practice), you are exposing your oral health to a much greater risk of ending up with issues like tooth decay.
3. True or False: Tartar does not form magically. It hardens over time, usually within 24 to 48 hours. So, keeping your smile clean is very important.

Quiz Answers

1. False. Plaque is a sticky substance that is full of bacteria. It is soft enough for you to remove with brushing and flossing. Tartar is plaque that has become extremely hard. It is also filled with bacteria but you cannot remove it.
2. True. Since the tartar hardens and remains on your teeth and often beneath gums for an extended period of time, you run the risk of ending up with avoidable oral health concerns.
3. True. When you ignore your dental hygiene duties, the plaque on your smile will harden within one to two days.

Keep Your Oral Health Nice And Safe With Cleanings

Remember to come in for cleanings, in addition to caring for your smile with your brushing and flossing, to keep everything healthy. Schedule a visit with your dentist in Austin, TX by contacting Austin General Dentistry today at 512-346-5540.