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Brushing and flossing are the good habits in the daily fight for a healthy smile, but few know that hidden enemies can destroy oral health once they take up residence in a mouth. They are the dental plaques, a colourless film of bacteria left on the teeth throughout a day. Even though invisible, the formation of such plaque occurs continually, depending on your practice of oral hygiene habits or lack of it when brushing or not flossing regularly.
At Smithville Dental, we think that knowing what plaque is and how it affects your teeth creates the first step toward preventing the serious dental issues it can cause. Below, we delve into what exactly plaque is, how it affects your teeth and gums, and-most importantly-what you can do to keep it in check.
What is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is that soft, sticky film of your teeth forming as a result of bacteria in your mouth mixing with food particles and saliva. Plaque builds up constantly on the surfaces of your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to clean – between the teeth and along the gumline.
Bacteria in plaque feed on sugars that you get from food and beverages. As they digest the same, they produce acids which erosion away the enamel of your teeth causing cavities, gum disease, and loss of teeth if left unchecked.
Plaque can often not be seen; it will dry and form into tartar, which, other than by a dentist, cannot be removed. This could further inflame the gums and contribute to much more serious oral diseases including gum recession and periodontal disease if deposits build up on your teeth.
Dangers of Dental Plaque
Although plaque seems harmless on the surface, it is very destructive in real life if you neglect its care for some time. Here are how plaques can severely affect your teeth and gum health:
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
The leading cause of cavities is plaque. When plaque is formed and not cleaned through brushing, the bacteria within plaque start producing acids that start to attack your tooth enamel. Gradually, this demineralizes the enamel, making it weaker and more susceptible to cavities. If cavities are left untreated, they can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Plaque can also irritate your gums. It causes inflammation when plaque forms along the gumline; this is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can make your gums appear swollen, red, and even bleed while you brush or floss.
If not treated, gingivitis develops into periodontitis, the aggressive form of gum disease that affects tissues that support your teeth. The cause of shifting gum recession and tooth mobility all the way to loss in the worse cases is achieved.
3. Halitosis, or bad breath
Plaque also plays a crucial role in bad breath. The bacteria that love dwelling in plaque produce sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the awful smell of bad breath. The longer the plaque remains without being removed, the more difficult it is to remove it using mouthwash.
4. Tartar Build-up
It eventually hardens into tartar if not removed. Tartar is rough and porous, so only a dentist can remove it. When the tartar is formed, it allows for more plaque to form. This creates a vicious cycle that may eventually cause other major oral problems.
Preventing Dental Plaque Buildup
The good news is that dental plaque can be controlled and prevented with the right oral hygiene habits. Here are some essential tips to help you keep plaque under control and protect your oral health:
1. Brush Your Teeth Properly
Brush your teeth at least two times a day for at least two minutes each time to help in controlling plaque. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to pay particular attention to the gumline and the difficult-to-reach areas such as the back teeth and between the teeth.
Think of using an electric toothbrush. According to studies, they can remove plaque more effectively than oral brushing with hands. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if bristles begin to fray.
2. Floss every day
One of the most effective methods for cleaning in between the teeth and down along the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach is by flossing. Insert the floss gently into the gap between the teeth, making a zigzag motion while ensuring you don’t snap the floss against the gums. Most people find it sufficient to floss once a day.
3. Mouthwash
An antimicrobial mouthwash can help decrease the creation of plaque and kill bacteria that lead to bad breath. Though mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing or flossing, it may be a beneficial complement to your oral care practice. When choosing a mouthwash, a good choice to consider should be the one that lowers plaque and gingivitis.
4. Watch Your Diet
The primary contributor for plaque buildup is what one eats. Consuming lots of sugary foods and drinks feed the bacteria living in your mouth, contribute to plaque formation, and lead to tooth decay. Try to reduce sugary snacks and drinks, but especially between meals. Drinking many glasses of water during the day will also help brush away food particles and reduce bacteria that may contribute to plaque buildup.
A well-balanced diet should comprise fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fresh fruits and crunchy vegetables can even “brush” away plaque from your teeth as you eat, apples and carrots being examples of such vegetables.
5. Periodic Checkup
While you brush and floss daily, regular visits to your dentist are crucial in ensuring professional cleanings and checkups. The dental hygienist can use special tools that remove plaque and tartar from areas the brushes cannot reach. Regular visits to Smithville Dental may ward off the plaque advance and catch potential problems before they become major.
What Happens at a Dental Cleaning?
In a professional cleaning appointment at your dentist, our hygienists gently brush away the plaque and tartar that can form on your teeth with top-of-the-line equipment. They will also give you a high-shine polish, so you’ll feel fresh and clean as you leave the dentist. Preventions like these can be made to prevent gum disease and cavities, maintaining healthy gums.
Conclusion: Don’t Get Caught by Surprise by Plaque
Dental plaque is not visible, but the effects can be. If left unchecked, plaque can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and many other dental issues that impact your smile and health. Fortunately, it is not very hard to prevent plaque formation with proper daily habits and regular visits to the dentist.
Smithville Dental are your trusted friends for maintaining a smile that lasts a lifetime. If you have questions regarding plaque or want to schedule a cleaning, call us today. Let’s make you look and feel fantastic.