What is plaque?

Dental plaque is a sticky film that covers your teeth, it can be colorless or a pale yellow. This plaque forms between the teeth and along the gum line. It can feel “fuzzy” when someone runs their tongue across their teeth. 

Plaque can lead to

• Cavities
• Gingivitis
• Bad Breath

This dental plaque forms when sugar and starches are often left on the teeth, unbrushed. The bacteria in our mouth release acid as a result of the untouched sugar and starches. This release of acids can attack tooth enamel which leads to tooth decay. Plaque is the main cause of other dental health issues, such as gingivitis. 

There have been links between periodontal and other diseases. Many periodontal diseases develop due to this plaque and built-up tartar. Here are a few linked diseases:

• Gum Disease and Heart Disease 
• Gum Disease and Dementia
• Gum Disease and Diabetes

How to remove plaque

Noticed you had some plaque along your gum line or elsewhere on your teeth? It’s a lot simpler than you would think. The easiest way to remove it is a thorough brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Mouthwash can be added to someone’s dental routine to ensure they reached all dental surfaces.

 If you notice your teeth feel a little “fuzzy” after a meal,  just try brushing and flossing after the meal to clean your teeth of any sugar or starches. Don’t forget to floss under the gum line! 

Ask your dentist if sealants are appropriate for your dental needs. Sealants are a thin protective coating over chewing surfaces to prevent cavities. Make sure to visit your dentist every 6 months, this can help in preventing dental diseases due to early detection. 

What is Tartar?

Plaque that is missed and not removed from someone’s dental surfaces can harden. This hardened plaque is called tartar, it can make keeping your teeth clean extremely hard. 

Tartar forms at and around the gum line and can cause gingivitis. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease that makes the gums swollen and may bleed easily. While removing plaque is fairly simple, removing tartar requires a hand from your dentist. The reason tartar removal requires a dental professional is that dental tarter is closely bonded to tooth enamel.

Interested in Berkers Family Dentistry?

Looking for dental care or have general questions concerning our Dentistry contact us today! For more information about what Berkers Family Dentistry has to offer for your dental care check out the Services page.