I set up a 10 gallon tank with a few fish and two snails. Shortly after I added the first snail, I noticed that numerous small, white dots appeared on my artificial plants and on some of the gravel stones in the tank (coincidence to adding the snail? I don't know...) Anyway, the spots don't seem to be disappearing, even after I changed to a better filter. They don't seem to effect the fish or move around themselves. They are hard to the touch but easily swept off of the plants and glass. Any idea what they are and how I can get rid of them? 
I would appreciate the advice since I am new to the fish tank hobby.
I would appreciate the advice since I am new to the fish tank hobby.