What is dental plaque?

Dental plaque can be found in all areas surrounding your teeth, as well as along the gum-line and below the gum-line cervical margins. It is a biofilm that grows on surfaces within your mouth and is made from bacteria unifications. To avoid tooth decay, it is important that you remove any bacteria growth through proper oral hygiene and ensure that you regularly brush and floss.

What is dental plaque made from?
It is normal to find bacteria within your mouth. Bacteria such as leukocytes and lymphocytes contribute to your oral health and helps to sustain regularities. Studies suggest that there are about 1,000 different bacterial species recognised in dental plaque. These bacteria can cultivate from the food we eat and mix in with saliva, further enhancing growth. It is crucial to monitor and remove any traces of dental plaque to avoid potential oral problems in the future.

What happens when you don’t remove dental plaque?
If you don’t take any action to remove dental plaque, you will make your mouth vulnerable to numerous oral problems such as gingivitis and periodontist.

Gingivitis: When you allow for plaque to build up around the gingival tissues, you may notice an appearance of blood and inflammations around the gum area. To eradicate gingivitis, you must eliminate all traces of dental plaque.

Periodontitis: Periodontitis is a type of gum infection which can lead to bone destruction within your teeth and bone structures. Periodontitis often occurs once gingivitis has become too severe and has further progressed into attacking and breaking down bone. To treat periodontitis, patients need to follow strict oral hygiene measures and in some cases, dental surgery is advised.

How do I get rid of dental plaque?
Dental plaque will continue to grow if it is left undisturbed. Regular tooth-brushing will help to maintain and remove any thick layers of plaque development. Here are some simple tips to decrease your chances of attracting dental plaque:

1. Make sure that you thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day.
2. Don’t forget to floss and remove the plaque in-between your teeth.
3. Get your teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist and schedule in regular dental check-ups.

Do you suspect oral damage from dental plaque? Visit us and start a conversation with our supportive team of dental professionals. To book an appointment, click here. Get the support you need for a healthier and happy mouth today.