Plaque is a soft, sticky and invisible deposit that forms on the teeth and gums. Plaque produces acids from the bacteria in your mouth and is the culprit that attacks the teeth to create cavities. Plaque can also contribute to gum disease and bad breath.

Tartar is the result of hardened plaque. You can see tartar, as it becomes a yellowish deposit around the tooth at the gumline. Because tartar is stronger than plaque, it is not easily removed. Removing tartar does require a dental professional. Since it can be found above and below the gumline, tartar, if not removed, can result in cavities, gum disease and even tooth loss.

The best way to break the connection is to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque. Since plaque forms rapidly, twice daily brushing is recommended. Using a tartar control toothpaste can help reduce tartar buildup, but regular professional cleanings are really the best solution.

Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa is a family dentist and here to answer your questions.  We are conveniently located if you are in the Shorewood, Tonka Bay, Excelsior or Lake Minnetonka area.

Chances are other than looking for fluoride, you really don’t understand what the ingredients in toothpaste really do for your teeth.

Toothpaste contains anywhere from 20 – 40% water and three main ingredients: abrasives, fluoride and detergents.

Abrasives make up about 50% of toothpaste and their job is to remove plaque from your teeth. Like the treatments used by a hygienist, the abrasive also perform a “polishing action” on your teeth. They remove stains and also give toothpaste that shine you see when applied to your toothbrush.

Fluoride is the active ingredient in toothpaste that helps prevent cavities. The level of fluoride is regulated and is 1000 to 1100 parts per million.

Detergents, or surfactants, improve the cleaning power of toothpaste. Sodium lauryl sulfate is the most commonly found cleansing ingredient. Its purpose is to be the foaming agent that helps distribute the toothpaste and improve its ability to clean.

Of course, toothpaste comes in many flavors and colors. The most common flavors are peppermint, spearmint and wintergreen and are usually added in the form of oils. Kids have toothpaste in bubblegum, watermelon, berry, and cinnamon flavors too.

If you have questions about your toothpaste or the best choice for you, please ask our Hygienist. We are here to provide the best information on your dental care. Call us at 952-473-4900 or use our Request an Appointment page. We are conveniently located if you are in the Wayzata, Plymouth or Minnetonka area.

Did you ever hear your mom say, “Don’t bite your nails! It is an awful habit.”  Well, mom was right. The result is short stubby nails, bitten ragged and sometimes bleeding skin, but also damage to your teeth.

It is estimated that about 40% of all children bite their nails. Nail or cuticle biting or chewing stresses the front teeth. It increases the pressure on the front teeth, which are not strong enough for continual use. The result can be fractured, cracked or worn down front teeth. Gum damage can also result from the sharp and ragged edges of nails digging into the gum. The other side of the constant biting and chewing is the introduction of unwanted bacteria from the mouth that can then spread back to the nails and into the blood stream.

The use of a mouthguard is often used as a deterrent to nail biting. Dr. McDowell can fit you with a custom mouthguard and offer suggestions to help you break the cycle of nailing biting to protect your hands and teeth.

Call our office at 952-473-4900 or use our request an appointment page. Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa is conveniently located if you are in the Wayzata, Plymouth or Minnetonka area.