What is plaque?
Dental plaque is a white, sticky film of bacteria that’s constantly forming on your teeth and gum line. A furry feeling on the teeth is the most common sign that you have plaque. Bad breath and sore gums are also indicators. The bacteria in plaque converts the sugars and starch from food particles into acid. This acid – plaque – builds up on the teeth and wears away at the tooth’s surface (enamel) and irritates the gums.
What does plaque cause?
Plaque causes damage to both teeth and gums. If not removed, it can cause cavities, gum disease (gingivitis), swollen bleeding gums, and the more severe form of gum disease, periodontal disease. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to tooth abscesses and tooth loss.
Risk of developing plaque
Everyone develops plaque, but your risk increases if you:
- eat food high in sugar
- eat food high in carbohydrates
- have dry mouth due to not drinking enough water or taking certain medications
- smoke or chew tobacco
- have braces
- have crowded teeth
What is tartar
When plaque is not removed or brushed off it can harden. This hardened plaque is called calculus or tartar and can further irritate the gums causing progressive gum disease. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist. Dental tartar forms on the enamel on your teeth and is generally located along and below your gum line and in between teeth. A common area is behind the lower front teeth.
What does tartar cause?
Tartar traps stains and causes teeth to take on a yellow or brown discolouration where the tartar sits. It also makes brushing and flossing properly more difficult, which can result in tooth decay.
Once formed, tartar can only be removed by a dentist. However, there are ways to prevent and avoid tartar by removing any initial build-up of soft plaque and reduce the risk of gum disease.
- Brush your teeth and along the gum line twice a day.
- Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use interdental brushes, or another tool recommended by a dentist clean in between teeth.
- Limit sugars – especially between meals.
Regular dental check-ups are the best way to identify any plaque or tartar and treat it
early so you can maintain healthy teeth and gums.