Tooth Plaque

Plaque is one of the most common dental problems that people face. Lack of oral hygiene and dental-care is what ends up in tooth plaque formation. Discussed under are the major points regarding the problem of plaque, it causes and requisite treatments. Read on for details.

What is Tooth Plaque?

Tooth plaque or dental plaque can be defined as a thin biofilm of mucus and bacteria accumulated on the teeth which promotes the development of dental caries. Plaque makes the teeth feel fuzzy to the tongue especially prior to tooth brushing.

Causes of Plaque

The main reason for plaque formation is the accumulation of carbohydrate enriched food particles around the teeth. Edibles like cakes, raisins, milk, candies etc. left on the teeth later become a supporting element for the bacteria to sustain. This in turn ends up in developing acids and destroying tooth enamel. Not only on the tooth enamel, but plaque can also develop under the gums and prove fatal for the bone supporting the tooth.
Mentioned under are 5 common habits that cause plaque formation:

1- Not Brushing the teeth Regularly

Brushing as is always said is extremely important for teeth. Not brushing the teeth regularly can allow the plaque to strengthen and damage the entire denture.

2- Not Flossing Regularly

Tooth brushes don't reach deep within the spaces between two teeth hence it is imperative to floss the teeth gently at least once a day. Tooth floss easily swipes off all the food particles left in between the teeth spaces that help in developing plaque.

3- Avoiding or Delaying the Visit to Dentist

Most people dread seeing a dental hygienist or a dentist. Brushing and flossing can indeed avoid plaque but make sure you go for dental cleanings at least once a year by a qualified dentist. Do not overdue a visit to your dentist.

4- Ignoring Natural Toothbrushes

Crunchy vegetables and fruits are abrasive in nature and are considered as natural tooth brushes. Hence, a diet high on carrots, cucumbers, apples etc. can help keep various dental problems at bay. Besides, these food items are an essential part of every human's healthy diet.

5- Indulging Your Sweet Tooth

Gorging onto too many sweets i.e carbohydrates laden food is an open invitation to dental problems including plaque. Dental bacterias thrive on such foods and end up in major problems like plaque, tartar, loosening of teeth, damaged tooth enamel etc.

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Dental Plaque Treatments

-Religiously follow the golden rule of oral hygiene- BRUSH your teeth EVERYDAY. Brushing twice a day and gargling after every meal should be a inscribed habit. Use a fluoride-containing toothpaste and a soft round tip bristled tooth brush for brushing.

-Floss your at least once a day. This helps in completing the task that brushing is unable to perform i.e. reaching in between the teeth spaces.

-Pay visit to your oral hygienist aka dentist at least once in 6 months. No matter you have a dental issue or not but just visit the dentist for a routine check up.

-Ask your dentist if you need a dental sealant. Dental sealants refer to thin plastic coatings that are chewing surfaces of teeth to avoid cavities and decay.

-Restrict the number of in between snacks and eat a healthy, balanced diet. In case you have a craving for snacks, opt for nutritious foods like yogurt, fruits, cheese etc. Vegetables like celery help in getting rid of food particles and influence saliva to neutralize plaque causing acids.