What is dental plaque?

Dental plaque or dental plaque is a very thin, invisible mass on the teeth and gums. It contains various types of bacteria that are active in the mouth even after brushing. Over time, after cleaning with a brush and toothpaste, they increase. In some cases, it can lead to gum disease and infections.

Infection can also develop from excessive sugar intake or lack of good oral hygiene.

The food

When we eat foods rich in carbohydrates (sugar, starch) and also soft drinks or sweets, often some of them remain on the teeth and increase acidity. The bacteria that live in the mouth in such an environment multiply, damage the tooth enamel, enter its interior and cause cavities. Some foods are difficult to clean themselves from saliva, such as honey, sugar, soda, ice cream, raisins (and all dried fruits), cookies, hard candies (for sucking), French fries, etc. Sweet drinks, for example, remain on the surface of the teeth for hours, attacking it and causing the tooth to become fragile and brittle. It is recommended to consume a balanced diet and, if possible, without additional meals or sweets. If necessary, choose yogurt, cheese, fruits, raw vegetables (celery, for example, neutralizes acids and helps to naturally clean the teeth).

The water

The composition of the water we drink is also important. The high fluoride content in tap water should be regulated, so it is recommended to alternate between mineral and spring water.

Most often, tooth decay occurs on the back (distal) teeth, where the chewing surfaces are large and have many grooves (fissures). Food gets trapped in them and cleaning is much more difficult and inaccessible.

Plaque can also develop below the gum line towards the root of the tooth and even towards the bone. The roots have a natural cementum protection, but when exposed, it easily disintegrates and the tooth falls under the attack of bacteria. They in turn destroy the enamel, entering the dentin, which is much softer and quickly destroyed.

It would be a good idea to brush your teeth at least twice a day, with a brush with soft rounded tips, paying special attention to the transition from the gum to the tooth.

If plaque is not systematically cleaned, it turns into tartar.