Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It’s normal to produce plaque, but if you don’t remove plaque with routine dental cleanings and daily brushing and flossing, it can cause cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues.
Plaque develops when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as milk, soft drinks, candy, or other foods are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids that can destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. Plaque can also develop on the tooth roots under the gum and cause breakdown of the bone supporting the tooth. Plaque buildup can also lead to gum disease: first gingivitis, the tender and swollen gums that sometimes bleed. Over time, severe periodontal (gum) disease can develop. Gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing the bacteria to destroy the underlying bone supporting the teeth.
Tartar is hardened plaque. If you don’t remove plaque regularly, it will turn into tartar. At this point, you can’t brush or floss it away. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove it. Dental calculus is another name for tartar. Tartar might be off-white or yellow at first. But after a while, it will take on the color of whatever foods or substances you consume. For example, certain things can make tartar look darker, including coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking or tobacco. Extreme dental plaque and tartar can lead to cavities, gingivitis and other forms of gum disease, tooth infection, and tooth loss.
During a dental checkup, a dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. They may also recommend: dental sealants to keep plaque from forming on the surfaces of teeth, dry mouth treatments to increase saliva production, fluoride treatments to slow the growth of plaque causing bacteria and reduce the risk of tooth decay, and prescription toothpaste or antibacterial mouthwash.
To reduce plaque, visit your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene.
Here’s how to remove plaque from teeth:
Floss daily. Floss once a day with dental floss to get rid of food and plaque stuck between teeth. Studies show that flossing before brushing teeth removes more plaque.
Brush twice a day. Brush your teeth for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush at least twice a day and preferably after every meal.
Chew sugarless gum. If you can’t brush soon after eating or drinking, chew sugar-free gum. Choose a kind that has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Choose healthy foods. Cut back on sugary, starchy foods and drinks. Instead, choose nutritious foods and snacks such as plain yogurt, cheese, raw vegetables or fruit.
See your dentist. Get dental checkups and cleanings at least twice a year.
Use mouthwash. Rinse daily with an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antiseptic mouthwash.
You should see your dentist for teeth cleanings at regular intervals. Some people need cleanings every six months. Others may need more frequent visits. Your dentist can let you know what type of cleaning schedule is best for your needs. If you develop any new concerns between your dental cleanings, call your dentist to schedule a checkup.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/plaque-and-your-teeth Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board