What is Plaque?

Cavities are caused by tooth decay, a process that occurs over time. It starts when plaque forms on your teeth and worsens as the plaque attacks your tooth’s enamel. Toothpaste commercials say you need to get rid of it, and so does your dentist. But what the heck is plaque, really? Here’s everything you need to know and do to combat this natural foe.

Understanding Tooth Plaque

Dental plaque is the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that coats your teeth. It’s what gives them that “fuzzy” feeling, forming from the bacteria that feeds on sugars and starches that aren’t properly brushed away. If plaque remains on your teeth it can harden under or about the gum line and form tartar, or calculus. Tartar makes plaque even more difficult to remove and creates a protective environment for more bacteria.

Let untreated, plaque can lead to serious gum disease.

How Tooth Plaque Harms Your Teeth

Bacteria are constantly growing in our mouths, so everyone develops plaque. If it isn’t removed, especially from around the gum line, it can cause inflammation and irritation to the gums.

As acids wear away the enamel on your teeth, tooth decay develops, and bacteria and acid continue to attack your teeth moving ever closer to the inner tooth material known as pulp. Your tooth’s pulp contains blood vessels and nerves and when they become swollen and irritated from the bacteria, the nerve is pressed and you feel pain.

Other problems that result from plaque buildup include:

• Gingivitis. Also called gum inflammation, symptoms include redness, bleeding gums, sensitivity, and tenderness.
• Bad breath. Stinky breath is caused by oral bacteria that live inside the dental plaque that builds up on and around your teeth. The sooner you get rid of them, the fresher your breath will be.
• Cavities. They’re so common that many people don’t take them seriously. But cavities and tooth decay can lead to serious and long-lasting complications such as tooth abscesses, damaged or broken teeth, chewing problems, and tooth loss, even for children who don’t have their permanent teeth yet.

How to Prevent Plaque Build Up

In addition to limiting snacking, eating a healthy diet that includes things like raw veggies, yogurt, and cheese, can do wonders for your smile.

• Regular brushing. It’s the best way to remove plaque. Twice-a-day brushing along with flossing or another interdental cleaner helps protect your teeth from decay. For proper brushing and flossing, talk to your dentist or follow these tips from the American Dental Association.
• Flossing. If you use a floss, be sure to use a gentle rubbing motion between your teeth to remove food particles. You can also use a mouth rinse that contains antimicrobials to reduce bacteria and plaque activity.

One of the best ways to stop plaque in its destructive path is through regular dentist visits and cleanings that monitor and address your plaque buildup. The more you see your dentist, the better your chances of picking up on any potential tooth problems before they turn into serious issues.

Kanehl Dental Group offers a unique and comprehensive dental experience. If you want to learn more about plaque, tartar, and/or gum disease, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.