Most people have some idea as to what dental plaque is based on the television commercials we see for various toothpastes and mouthwashes, but how much do you really know about this mystery substance on your teeth? At the Fort Worth, TX dental practice of Dr. Renee Corbitt, we offer an all-encompassing array of general and preventive dental care services — including thorough cleanings and patient education — giving our valued patients the opportunity to enjoy their healthiest, brightest smiles for a lifetime.
Importance of Regular Cleanings
Plaque is the whitish, sticky substance that accumulates on the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line over the course of the day. It is comprised of bacteria and sugar, and can be removed relatively easily with proper brushing and flossing. If plaque is allowed to remain on the enamel, however, it can lead to cavities and the buildup of tartar. Tartar is a hardened white substance that cannot be removed with a toothbrush or floss. Failure to remove tartar from along and below the gum line can lead to inflammation and bleeding, and even the dangerous oral health condition known as periodontal disease.
Because plaque feeds on sugary and starchy substances, avoiding an excess of these foods is recommended. When you do indulge in foods high in sugars or starches, remember to thoroughly brush and floss afterward to protect your tooth enamel from the damaging effects of plaque buildup. If you ever have any questions about improving your home oral hygiene routine, Dr. Corbitt is always happy to offer helpful tips and demonstrations. We are here to help you!
Routine Checkups Help Prevent Disease
Has it been more than six months since your most recent dental checkup? If so, Dr. Corbitt and our entire team welcome you to contact us and schedule your next visit. Seeing Dr. Corbitt and our caring, experienced staff twice per year can help you dramatically reduce your risks of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other potentially destructive conditions. Our practice in Fort Worth, TX warmly welcomes families from throughout the DFW Metroplex, including Saginaw, Haltom City, Arlington, Forest Hill, Richland Hills, and more.
When you smile, do you feel confident and comfortable with the appearance of your teeth? For many people, dental blemishes like cracks, chips, stains, and gaps are issues that keep them from smiling freely at work and in social situations. At 
Do you often wake up in the morning with a stiff neck, sore jaw, or a persistent headache? Do you experience a popping or clicking sound or sensation when you open and close your mouth? If so, it is possible that you may be suffering the symptoms of a common condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ/TMD. At 
Do you find that you often feel exhausted during the day even when you’ve had what should have been a good night’s sleep? Perhaps your partner complains about your loud snoring, particularly when you lie on your back? Though these may be indicative of other issues, they are a few of the most common signs of a sleep disorder called sleep apnea. At the office of 
In certain cases, it may be necessary for patients to have one or more teeth extracted. For young patients, it may be that a baby tooth is not falling out and will need to be removed so the permanent tooth can come in behind it. For adults, there are many other reasons that a tooth might need to be extracted: