Try to look at your teeth in the mirror. Do you notice the white sticky film on it? That’s the plaque! Plaque is a result of excess bacteria and sugar. A toothbrush or a piece of floss may help you remove it. If you don’t get rid of it regularly, it may harden to form a hard layer of calculus (tartar). To get rid of calculus, you need to necessitate a scaling dental procedure. Regular dental check-ups may help you remove plaque and protect your teeth.
What is Plaque?
Plaque can be described as a sticky film that constitutes bacteria and keeps forming on the tooth surface compromising dental health and dental hygiene.
What causes plaque formation?
According to the best dentists in Mumbai, bacteria in your mouth mix with carbohydrates to form plaque. The main reason for the formation of carbohydrates in sugary or starchy food items, carbonated drinks, candy, bread, milk, etc. A mixture of these carbohydrates with bacteria leads to the formation of plaque.
What are the complications of plaque and why should it be removed regularly?
The bacteria in plaque produce certain acids which destroy the tooth surface. This exposes the tooth to cavities, gingivitis, gum diseases, and tooth infection. It can cause bad breath and poor oral health as well. Dentists advise timely removal of dental plaque to ensure proper dental health and dental hygiene.
How can you get rid of it?
The best dentists in Mumbai suggest these 5 tips that you can follow to get rid of plaque.
Brushing twice a day using the correct brushing technique using a soft-bristled brush and fluoridated toothpaste helps keep plaque at bay. Why twice you may ask? Plaque forms on the tooth surface every 12 hours and thus the best dental clinics in Mumbai recommend brushing twice a day.
Flossing once every day helps get rid of food and plaque stuck in between teeth which may lead to cavities between teeth later.
The best dentists in Mumbai suggest cutting back on sugary and starchy food which tends to stick to the tooth surface for a long duration forming plaque that further erodes the tooth surface exposing it to cavities.
A dentist can help identify plaque early and remove it before it turns into a more hardened layer of calculus and maintains adequate dental health and dental hygiene.
Mouthwash or mouth rinses help control the formation of plaque and prevent bacteria from sticking to the tooth surface. To be used only as per prescription.
You now know everything about plaque. Stick to these tips, book a dentist appointment, and get rid of plaque soonest!