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Dental plaque is a film of microorganisms, primarily bacteria, that forms on the surface of the teeth. While dental plaque is a common occurrence and may look harmless, it is one of the main causes behind gum problems and tooth decay. This soft, sticky film of microorganisms forms on the teeth every day, especially after eating sugary and starchy foods. Removing dental plaque is important. If not removed properly, dental plaque hardens into tartar.
Understanding what dental plaque is, its causes and learning ways to remove it at home can help you maintain your oral health and protect your smile.
Synopsis
What is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is a soft, sticky layer that forms along the teeth and gum line. This layer is primarily a mixture of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. While dental plaque is a common phenomenon, timely treatment is also necessary. When dental plaque is left untreated for a long time, it can cause serious dental problems. Initially, dental plaque remains colourless and is barely noticeable. But when plaque is not removed properly, it hardens into tartar. Tartar has a noticeably darker colour, and it can only be removed by a dentist.
Regular brushing and flossing are key ways to prevent dental plaque and protect oral health.
Causes of Dental Plaque
Common causes of dental plaque include:
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Bacterial growth: The Mouth naturally contains a hoard of bacteria. Carbohydrates and sugar particles present in food facilitate the growth of such bacteria. This increases the chances of plaque formation.
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Food: Accumulation of food particles between teeth aids in plaque formation. Foods like candy, bread, sodas, sugary fruits and dairy products stick to teeth and aid in bacterial growth. This, in turn, promotes the formation of dental plaque.
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Poor dental hygiene: Poor dental hygiene causes plaque formation. When this dental plaque hardens over time, it is called tartar. Tartar can cause major dental problems if left untreated for too long.
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Dry mouth: Proper saliva production is essential in preventing plaque, as it helps wash away food particles. Insufficient saliva production causes dry mouths. This exacerbates the risk of dental plaque formation.
Symptoms of Dental Plaque
Some of the common symptoms of dental plaque are:
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A fuzzy feeling on the teeth
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Halitosis or persistent bad breath
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Bleeding or swollen gums, especially after brushing
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Yellowed or stained teeth
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Inflammation of the gums
Dental Plaque v/s Tartar
Dental plaque is a colourless film of bacteria that forms over teeth. It takes the colour of the food being eaten, which is why teeth may appear yellowed or stained over time. When dental plaque is not removed properly, it hardens into a dark, rough deposit called tartar. Tartar sticks to the teeth and certain things can worsen tartar discolouration, such as:
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Coffee, tea or red wine
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Smoking
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Tomato-based gravies and colourful fruits
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Spices like turmeric and chilli
Dental Plaque Treatments
Proper treatment for dental plaque can be achieved through a consultation with a dentist.
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Dental cleanings: Plaque can be removed by brushing. However, tartar can be removed only through specialised dental cleanings, also called scaling, performed by a dentist.
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Fluoride treatment: Fluoride treatment helps strengthen teeth. It prevents tooth decay from tartar buildup.
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Dental sealants: These are protective coverings applied over the narrow grooves of the teeth. This creates a barrier that prevents bacterial accumulation, thereby inhibiting plaque formation.
How to remove Dental Plaque at home?
Proper removal of plaque and tartar is only possible through professional dental cleaning. However, maintaining oral hygiene at home is essential for preventing plaque buildups.
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Regular brushing: Brushing daily is important for maintaining oral hygiene. It removes food particles from the mouth and inhibits plaque formation. Plaque formation starts within 4-12 after brushing. Thus, brushing twice daily is important.
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Flossing: The bacteria in the mouth feed on food particles stuck between the teeth. This activity aids in plaque formation. Flossing helps remove such food particles, thereby controlling dental plaque formation.
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Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help curb bacterial growth. It also freshens breath and washes off food particles from areas which are hard to reach by toothbrush or dental floss.
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Diet: Foods rich in sugar and carbohydrates aid bacterial growth in the mouth, causing plaque. Limiting such foods and replacing them with healthier alternatives rich in fibre and protein help prevent plaque buildup.
Conclusion
It is essential to maintain proper dental hygiene and regularly get dental checkups. It helps in preventing dental plaque and its associated problems. The Department of Dental Medicine at Manipal Hospitals Kolkata is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities for all kinds of dental problems. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospitals unit today for comprehensive dental care.
FAQ's
Genetics can potentially play a part in dental plaque formation. Some people are more prone towards getting dental plaque due to faster bacterial growth and slower saliva production, even if they maintain good oral hygiene.
Plaque can form within 4 to 12 hours after brushing. Thus, brushing twice a day is important for optimal plaque prevention. Electrical toothbrushes were found to be more effective against plaque compared to regular toothbrushes.
Yes, children can be at risk of getting dental plaque. This is why dental hygiene is important for children as well.
Oral health is intrinsically related to overall health. When oral infections and inflammations happen, bacteria can enter the body through the bloodstream. This may lead to issues like heart disease, diabetes, lung infections and low birth rate in women. Poor oral hygiene creates a breeding ground for micro-organisms in the mouth, contributing to overall health problems.
Mental health is related to dental health in more ways than one. Poorly managed stress can cause dry mouth, due to which plaque-causing bacteria can grow faster. People suffering from severe and chronic depression have often been observed to neglect regular brushing and flossing.
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