Dental Plaque: What is It, Causes, How to Remove, Prevent & Treat
Written By: Dr. Abdulrahman Ghalib Atatreh
Updated On:December 27, 2023
What is Dental Plaque?
A sticky film of germs known as plaque is continually forming on your teeth. Once you eat or drink, bacteria in plaque start to create acids. These acids have the power to erode tooth enamel, resulting in cavities and gingivitis (gum disease).
Furthermore, plaque can form on tooth roots and gums, weakening the bones that support teeth. Untreated plaque can become tartar, which is difficult to remove. Plaque is removed by practicing good oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing every day.
Causes of Dental Plaque
When carbohydrates (sugars and starches) from meals like milk, soda, raisins, cakes, or candies are routinely left on the teeth, plaque forms. These meals are ideal for the bacteria that inhabit the mouth, which leads to the production of acids. These acids gradually erode tooth enamel, which causes tooth decay. Moreover, plaque can form on the tooth roots beneath the gum line, weakening the bone that supports the tooth.
Gum disease can also be brought on by plaque buildup. Gingivitis is characterized by sore, swollen, and occasionally bleeding gums. Periodontal (gum) disease that is severe can develop over time. The underlying bone supporting the teeth is destroyed by germs when gum tissue pushes away from the tooth.
Symptoms of Dental Plaque
The most obvious symptom of dental plaque is when your teeth feel fuzzy. Other signs include the following:
- Persistent foul breath (halitosis).
- Gums that bleed after brushing and are red, swollen, and tender (gum disease).
When to see a doctor for Dental Plaque?
If any of the following occur, contact your healthcare professional right away:
- Persistent foul breath
- Facial swelling
- Losing a tooth
- Painful tooth
- Mouth redness
- Swollen and/or bleeding gums
- Mouth pain
- Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold foods or beverages
Dental Plaque Risk Factors
Despite the fact that everyone gets plaque, you might experience more dental plaque than usual if you
- eat or drink a lot of sweet or starchy things,
- have dry mouth brought on by certain medical conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome, or by medication, such as antidepressants,
- have had head or neck radiation in the past,
- and smoke.
Dental Plaque Complications
Without proper preventative care, plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar can only be eliminated by a dentist. Tartar and plaque may cause:
- Cavities
- Gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease
- A serious gum infection (periodontitis)
- Tooth loss and decay
- Infected teeth (abscessed teeth)
Dental Plaque Diagnosis
During routine dental checkups, your dentist or dental hygienist utilizes devices to locate and eradicate plaque. Cavities can result from plaque. Dental X-rays may also be taken to look for cavities.
Dental Plaque Treatment
Plaque is removed and tartar accumulation is prevented by practicing good dental hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing. Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth during an examination. Also, your provider might advise you to
- Use dental sealants
- Take medication for treating dry mouth while promoting salivation
- Use fluoride-based treatments to stop decay and slow the growth of germs that cause plaque
- Use antibacterial mouthwash or prescription toothpaste (chlorhexidine).
Dental Plaque Prevention
Plaque can be reduced with proper dental and gum care. To prevent plaque, you are advised to do the following:
- Daily flossing: Use dental floss or a water flosser to remove food particles and grime that have been lodged between teeth.
- Brush two times every day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush (manual or motorized) to brush your teeth for two minutes. Clean your teeth at least twice each day, ideally right after each meal.
- Chew gum without sugar: After eating or drinking, if you can't brush right away, chew sugar-free gum instead.
- Choose nutritious foods: Reduce your intake of starchy, sugary foods and beverages. Use healthy alternatives instead, such plain yogurt, cheese, fresh veggies, and fruit.
- Employ mouthwash: Use a prescription- or over-the-counter antiseptic mouthwash to rinse.
- Maintain regular visits to the dentist: See your dentist at least twice a year to clean your teeth and for a general check-up.
Dental plaque is a frequent issue with a simple solution: See your dentist as well as brush and floss every day. To eliminate the microorganisms that create plaque, you can also use antiseptic mouthwashes. Too much time spent allowing plaque to remain on your teeth might cause it to harden and turn into tartar. You can eventually develop gum disease and lose several teeth. Dental cleanings are to be performed at least twice a year. Visit your dentist for advice on how to prevent tooth decay and minimize plaque.
References
Balenseifen, J. W., & Madonia, J. V. (1970). Study of dental plaque in orthodontic patients. Journal of dental research, 49(2), 320-324.
Chetruş, V., & Ion, I. R. (2013). Dental plaque-classification, formation, and identification. International Journal of Medical Dentistry, 17(2).
Rosan, B., & Lamont, R. J. (2000). Dental plaque formation. Microbes and Infection, 2(13), 1599-1607.
Scheie, A. A. (1994). Mechanisms of dental plaque formation. Advances in Dental Research, 8(2), 246-253.
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