Plaque is a bacteria that has damaging effects on the teeth. Plaque is identified as a creamy, sticky layer that appears on the dental surface due to irregular brushing. Plaque can harden to form tartar, which is very difficult to wash away through brushing and requires professional removal. Accumulation of plaque triggers dental decay and causes dental cavities.

When plaque accumulates along the gum line, the gum will become prone to bleeding, sensitive and swollen. This leads to periodontal disease, gingivitis and other complications. Ignoring these warning signals will make the condition worse and can cause tooth loss, infected gums and in some cases bone loss can occur. Effective oral hygiene practices and professional assistance can combat the adverse effects of plaque.

How plaque works on teeth?

Plaque extracts its growth elements from the foods we consume which include; carbohydrates sugar and starch. These elements are found in drinks, foods such as candies, cakes and pastries and many other starch rich items that we consume in everyday life. Sugar from food that is consumed is used by plaque for the production of acid that triggers tooth decay. This is the reason the plaque layer damages the shine and the color of the teeth and mars their appearance. This corrosion eventually leads to tooth decay and causes cavities in the teeth while infecting the gums.

Preventing plaque accumulation

In order to get professional help in the very early stages of dental complications, it is important to schedule a dental appointment on a regular basis.

The intake of food is important in that it stimulates saliva which helps in neutralizing plaque acids and reducing tooth decay.

Flossing is important, as it is a process which helps in removing the dirt, grime and residue from the dental area, where the bristles of a toothbrush cannot reach.
One of the most effective regimes is brushing the teeth twice in a day on a daily basis. This helps in washing away the layer of accumulated plaque.

It is important to use fluoride toothpaste for brushing the teeth.

It is recommended to use a round-tip, soft bristled tooth brush for cleaning the teeth.

Drinking water keeps the gums and teeth hydrated. This is important because it makes it difficult for plaque to stick to the gums and teeth.