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Hannah hygienist Portishead

What’s the different between plaque, tartar and calculus?

What is plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of harmful bacteria that builds up on your teeth and under your gums between brushing. This can easily be removed by brushing for a minimum of 2 minutes, twice a day and using either floss or interdental brushes each day.

If plaque is missed whilst brushing, this can cause your gums too become inflamed and may cause bleeding or decay.

What is tartar?

If plaque stays on your teeth for too long, it can harden, forming tartar, also known as calculus.

Tartar is not easy to remove through brushing or flossing and is usually needed to be removed by a hygienist to ensure that your gums stay healthy.

What happens if plaque and tartar aren’t removed?

If plaque and tartar are not removed, your gums will become inflamed, making it sore and uncomfortable. It can also give you bad breath due to the accumulation of bacteria.

If plaque accumulates on teeth and is not removed regularly, it may move downwards on your tooth until it reaches your bone that hold your teeth in place and starts to destroy the bone. This is a non reversible condition called periodontitis.

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Ever wondered what it’s really like to walk through the doors at Evolve Dentistry? 💚

We know that for many people, the unknown can be the most nerve-wracking part of visiting the dentist. That’s why we wanted to show you around.

From the moment you arrive and step into our Patient Lounge, everything is designed to help you feel calm, welcomed, and comfortable. No clinical feel. No rushing. Just a relaxed space where you’re treated as a person, not an appointment.

This walkthrough gives you a glimpse of what to expect — so when you do visit, it already feels familiar.
Because feeling comfortable matters just as much as the care itself. 🤍

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Feeling nervous about visiting the dentist? You’re not alone 💚

For many people, dental visits come with worry, past experiences, or simply the fear of the unknown — and that’s something we truly understand.

In this video, Rachael talks honestly about what it’s like if you feel nervous about coming to the dentist, and how we support patients every step of the way. From taking things at your pace, to listening without judgement, and making sure you always feel comfortable and informed.

At Evolve Dentistry, there’s no pressure and no rushing — just a calm, supportive environment where you’re in control from the moment you arrive in our Patient Lounge.

If you’ve been putting off an appointment because of nerves, this one’s for you. 🤍

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There’s nothing more meaningful to us than hearing how someone felt in our care.
This testimonial was recently shared by a patient of Richard’s, and it captures exactly what we strive for every day — time, understanding, and dentistry delivered with compassion and respect.

Thank you for trusting us, and for taking the time to share your experience. It truly means more than words. 🤍

At Evolve Dentistry, every patient, every visit, every conversation matters.
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🪥 Simple steps for a healthier smile 🪥

In this video, Jessica shares her top tips on how to improve your oral hygiene at home. From brushing and interdental cleaning to small daily habits that make a big difference, she explains how to keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits to the practice.

A few simple changes can go a long way.
📞 Speak to reception if you’d like personalised advice or support.
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