Plaque are whitish substances that form on the surfaces of your teeth minutes after brushing. The presence of the sticky plaque on the teeth is unhealthy for your gums and teeth. Plaque has been implicated in causing a number of dental conditions such as:
- Tooth decay: plaque in the presence of sugar encourages the formation of cavities.
- Gum disease: if plaque is allowed to accumulate, it hardens to form tartar/calculus. Once the tartar forms, it can not be removed by regular tooth brushing. Plaque and tartar irritate the gums and cause them to swell and bleed.
- Bad breath
Tips to get rid of plaque
- Regular tooth brushing with fluoride containing toothpaste helps remove plaque. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily.
- Cleaning in between the teeth by making use of the dental floss
- Use of mouthwash
- Visiting your dentist regularly.