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Posted on 11/30/2019 by Advanced Dental Associates |
 Have you ever noticed that sometimes, when you trace your tongue across your teeth, they feel a little fuzzy? That's plaque that you are feeling. When that soft strip of plaque adheres to your teeth, it's alerting you that sugars as well as bacteria have come into prolonged contact with your teeth and gums. It is usually apparent when you are in a situation where you aren't practicing your usual oral routine. Your teeth should feel smooth and polished when they are clean. How Plaque Is FormedEveryone develops some level of plaque throughout the course of the day. These nasty plaque forming bacteria use compounds found in our diverse diets like sugar to grow. When the sugar is eaten by the bacteria in the mouth, it is converted to an acid called plaque. It leads cavities when these acids bond together to form plaque, which attack our teeth's exterior protection called enamel, after eating. If we do not remove this plaque and bacteria, they can begin to wear down. This is when a cavity starts to form. Plaque that is not successfully removed can also cause irritation the gums. This leads to red or even bleed gums when you are brushing. Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis. When plaque is left, it can quickly cause periodontal disease and eventually, tooth loss. How to Prevent PlaqueIt's easy to prevent plaque from building up with proper oral health care. Make sure to brush really well at least two times a day for two minutes to ensure you remove the plaque from each surface of your teeth. Ideally, we should all be flossing daily in an attempt to remove debris, food particles and plaque that forms between your teeth, but especially under the gum line. You need to focus on those areas where it can be more difficult to reach with your toothbrush. Limit sugary and or starchy food choices, especially the ones containing sugar. They are the most effective at starting plaque growth. Schedule regular visits with our office for cleanings and detailed examinations to ensure none has found any weak spots to form. If you are in need of a teeth cleaning or for a general checkup, call us today. We are here to assist with your oral health needs. |
Advanced Dental Associates
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