Bacterial plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on the teeth and is also known as tooth plaque, microbial
plaque, and dental biofilm. Plaque is a sticky, colorless yellowish biofilm that grows on the teeth on a
daily basis. Bacteria deposits get formed when saliva, food, and fluids combine resulting in bacteria
deposits where the teeth and gums intersect. Plaque is made up of bacteria that generate acids that
break down your tooth enamel and damage your gums. The harm could become permanent if not
treated. It is home to millions of bacteria that feed on the food and beverages you consume on a daily
basis. Tooth erosion, gum disease, and tartar accumulation can all be caused by bacteria deposits on
teeth that aren’t removed by daily brushing and flossing.

What triggers the growth of plaque?

Your mouth is a living ecosystem in and of itself. When you consume food, drink, or breathe, bacteria
and other microbes enter the body. A fragile equilibrium is maintained in your oral environment most of
the time, but complications can occur when some bacteria species become overabundant. Bacteria feed
on the sugars in carbs and sugary foods and beverages that you consume, forming acids in the process.
Cavities, gingivitis, and other forms of tooth decay may also be caused by these acids. Plaque can
cause tooth decay under your gums, where you can’t see it, eroding the support for your teeth.

What are some of the signs and symptoms of plaque?

Plaque is more easily detected by a fuzzy sensation on the top of one’s teeth.
● Chronic bad breath is one of the other indicators (halitosis).
● Gums that are red, bloated, and tender and also the ones that bleed after brushing (gum
disease).

How Will Tooth Plaque Affect Oral Health?

Most oral health problems are caused by plaque. Plaque bacteria contain acids that eat away at tooth
enamel, creating cavities. Plaque bacteria may also cause gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. The
plaque will also trigger poor breath and discolor the teeth, making them appear grim and yellow.

Cavities and gingivitis are caused by plaque on the teeth: If plaque is not extracted from your teeth
on a daily basis by good brushing and flossing, it develops into tartar, a stiff, brown, or yellow deposit
that clings to your teeth and can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar buildup can lead to
more severe gum disease if it isn’t removed at the earliest.

What is the only way to get rid of plaque?

The plaque will be removed by brushing and flossing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush on a daily
basis. Electric toothbrushes are recommended by dentists because they are thought to be more efficient
at removing plaque.
Plaque that has hardened into tartar will have to be removed by a dental professional. When you have a
routine dental checkup, the oral hygienist will extract it. Since tartar will accumulate in complex places
that are hard to reach, it’s important to see a dentist twice a year to keep it under control.

What’s the treatment for plaque?

You can undo plaque by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Some
dentists recommend electric toothbrushes because they are believed to be more effective at removing
plaque.
Plaque that has hardened into tartar will have to be removed by a dental professional. Your dentist or
oral hygienist can remove it when you have a regular dental checkup and cleaning. Because tartar can
build up in hard-to-reach places, it’s really important to visit a dentist twice a year to keep it under
control.

Measures to be taken to avoid Plaque:

Plaque reduction requires proper teeth and gum maintenance. Strive to have proper oral hygiene at all
times

❖ Remember to brush twice a day – Brush teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
manual or electric brush and fluoride toothpaste for two minutes. Brush your teeth at least twice
a day, ideally after every meal.
❖ Chew sugarless gum – If you don’t have time to rinse right after eating or drinking. Choose a
good branded sugarless gum that will help prevent bacterial growth that leads to the formation
of plaque.
❖ Eat nutritious meals – Avoid sugary, starchy foods and beverages. Instead, go for healthy
snacks and meals like plain milk, cheese, organic vegetables, fruits, etc.\
❖ Go to the dentist – Schedule an appointment and get your teeth checked at least twice a year.
Oral health is important. Prevention is way better than damage.
❖ Floss once a day – To remove food and plaque trapped between teeth, floss once a day with
dental floss or a water flosser. Flossing before cleaning teeth extracts additional plaque,
according to studies.
❖ Use an antiseptic mouthwash – Rinse with an over-the-counter or prescribed antiseptic
mouthwash after your regular oral care routine.

Ward off consequential dental issues by following a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis. Make
sure to prioritize your oral health since it plays a major role in your overall health. Visit us at Chikitsha Healthcare and experience quality treatment that will benefit your dental future.