Have you ever thought why dentists stress so much on optimal teeth cleaning? This is because a layer of food debris develops on our teeth when we ignore regular oral hygiene. Over time, harmful bacteria begin to reside inside it and cause various dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. So, it is important to prevent plaque formation on our teeth. But how do I get rid of plaque on my teeth? You may ask! We will answer this question in this blog. So, read till the end to know more about dental plaque and how to get rid of it.
According to the Dental Health Foundation, dental plaque is an almost colourless, sticky film that forms on our teeth. It comprises primarily food debris and bacterial colonies, and forms when we don’t brush or floss regularly. Contrary to the prevalent notion, dental plaque cannot be removed by rinsing with water, as it can only be removed mechanically.
Dental plaque is the initial sticky film that forms on our teeth. It can be easily removed with brushing. However, if brushing is ignored, this film hardens over time to become dental calculus. At this stage, it is not possible for the calculus to be removed with brushing or flossing, and can only be removed professionally by a dentist.
The best way to prevent plaque deposition is to ensure optimal oral hygiene through brushing and flossing. Plaque and tartar only form on our teeth when oral hygiene is neglected. While brushing one’s teeth helps remove plaque from the visible and accessible surfaces of the teeth, flossing cleans from within the tight interdental spaces. So, brushing and flossing combined are highly effective in preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
Yes, sub-optimal oral hygiene is one of the major factors leading to plaque formation. This is why dentists across the world focus on maintaining optimal oral hygiene to prevent dental plaque-related diseases such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Did you know that there is a direct connection between dental plaque and gum disease? Let’s understand this connection in detail. Dental plaque provides an ideal environment for disease-causing bacteria to reside in and multiply. These bacteria utilise the sugars in plaque and release toxins during the process. These toxins damage the gums, causing gum disease. If gum disease is not treated timely manner, it can progress into periodontal disease and may even cause tooth loss. Since plaque formation is among the major causes of gum disease, it can be easily prevented with optimal oral hygiene maintenance.
As mentioned earlier, the most effective method to remove plaque from the teeth is to brush and floss regularly. The bristles of a toothbrush help mechanically remove the food debris from the tooth surfaces. On the other hand, dental floss removes food debris from the interdental spaces. So, optimal oral hygiene maintenance is all it takes to prevent plaque-related dental complications.
According to the NHS, gum disease is when your gums become swollen, red, and sore due to underlying inflammation. In its initial stages, called gingivitis, where only the gums are involved, it can be reversed by optimising oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing. However, if it is left untreated for prolonged durations, it involves the supporting bone tissues and progresses to periodontal disease. At this stage, the disease can only be treated by a dentist. The process involves removing the plaque and tartar deposits using an ultrasonic scaler. Surgery is also required sometimes in case of severe periodontal disease.
According to the Mayo Clinic, a water flosser is highly effective in removing plaque deposits from the teeth. However, it is unable to remove dental calculus as it has become hardened and adheres firmly to the teeth. The only way to remove tartar is through a manual or ultrasonic scaler. An ultrasonic scaler’s tip vibrates at a very high frequency and forcefully breaks the tartar off the teeth.
Yes, plaque and tartar are among the most common reasons for bad breath. This is because the petrification of the food and bacterial debris on the teeth results in a foul smell, which causes halitosis. Again, bad breath caused by plaque and tartar can easily be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene.
When plaque becomes hardened into calculus or tartar, it cannot be removed with brushing or flossing. In such cases, a dental intervention is required for treatment. Your dentist will use an ultrasonic scaler to forcefully remove the tartar deposits from your teeth and from below the gumline. If necessary, they may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the underlying infection.
If you’re looking for the best family dental practice in Merseyside, there is no other place better than The White House Dental Practice. Our qualified and experienced dental team will ensure that your family receives the best dental care in a comfortable environment. Get in touch with us today to discuss your dental issues and let us take it from there!
