Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. As you eat, the bacteria from plaque uses the sugars in your food to produce acids. These acids eventually cause tooth decay and gum disease if not taken care of. If plaque isn’t removed regularly by flossing and brushing, the plaque will harden and turn into tartar. Too much plaque and tartar on and between your teeth can lead to gingivitis and eventually .
Dangers of Untreated Plaque
Plaque doesn’t just stay on your teeth. It can creep up and attack your gum line causing your gums to become red and inflamed. Once plaque has reached your gums, it can cause your teeth to loosen from your gum line. Left untreated, plaque can lead to bone and tooth loss.
Plaque not only affects your oral health, but it affects your overall health as well. Too much plaque can cause inflammation in the gums that could turn into gum disease. When reaches this point, it can travel to other parts of the body causing even more harm. The plaque can then clog arteries and lead to cardiovascular problems.
Plaque Prevention
Plaque is constantly forming in your mouth and can cause numerous issues if it’s not managed. Because plaque is colorless, it can be hard to notice it building up on your teeth. So what can you do to prevent plaque buildup?
- Brush your teeth thoroughly at least two times a day. Plaque leaves a film on your teeth that can easily be removed (and prevented) by giving your teeth a good brush everyday.
- Floss at least once a day to get rid of any plaque and bacteria that may be hiding out between your teeth and at your gum line.
- Go easy on the sweets and starches. Bacteria feeds off sugar, and eating too much of it increases the chances of plaque and tartar building up on your teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for a professional teeth cleaning and checkup. Your dentist will be able to do a better job of removing plaque than you can by just brushing at home.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque on your teeth and bacteria in your mouth.
Taking the time to use the simple methods above to prevent plaque buildup will ultimately save your health in the long run. Talk to your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about plaque and tartar.
To learn more about our Brighton dentists and the services we offer, please contact us here or call us at 810.227.4111. Our dental professionals strive to be the very best at providing patients with optimal care while making them feel right at home here in Brighton, MI.
