What is Plaque?
Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless biofilm of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth. Some types of plaque cause tooth decay while other types of plaque cause gum disease.
Everyone develops plaque because bacteria are constantly forming in our mouths. Often undetected, these bacteria use ingredients found in our diet and saliva to grow. Plaque causes cavities when the acids from plaque attack teeth after eating. With repeated acid attacks, the tooth enamel can break down and a cavity may form. Plaque that is not removed can also irritate the gums around your teeth, leading to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and eventual tooth loss.
Dental plaque is difficult to see unless it’s stained. You can stain plaque by chewing red “disclosing tablets.” The red or purple color left on the teeth will show you where there is still plaque—and where you have to brush again to remove it. Periodically, it can be beneficial to examine your teeth to make sure you are removing all plaque.
Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if your plaque removal techniques are okay.
Plaque accumulates in hard to reach areas of the mouth. If it is not removed daily, it begins to harden into a calcified substance called calculus, also known as tartar. Calculus can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
How Can I Prevent Plaque Buildup?
It's easy to prevent plaque buildup with proper care. Make sure to:
Brush thoroughly at least twice a day to remove plaque from all surfaces of your teeth. Electric toothbrushes are the most effective source of plaque removal, especially plaque collecting at the gumline.
Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gumline, where your toothbrush cannot reach.
Diet with limited amounts of sugary or starchy foods, especially sticky snacks, eliminate the food source for the bacteria found in plaque.
Regular Dental Visits for professional cleanings and dental examinations.
People used to think that as you got older you naturally lost your teeth. We now know that’s not true. By following easy steps for keeping your teeth and gums healthy – plus seeing your dentist regularly — you can have your teeth for a lifetime!
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