A Family Dentist Talks About Plaque Buildup

A family dentist can educate you on many things regarding oral hygiene; plaque buildup is one. They can go into it with great depth due to its common nature. The first question that arises is what plaque is. Plaque is a film of bacteria that builds upon the teeth when the bacteria in our mouths mixes with the sugary or starchy foods we consume. The bacteria in plaque produce acids after consuming food or drink and can cause much harm to our enamel and gums.

Dental plaque is present on everyone’s teeth to some extent. Plaque only becomes a problem when it is present in excess, which can be caused by consuming a lot of carbohydrates (starchy or sugary foods), a lack of saliva in the mouth, and smoking. If one does not brush their teeth after consuming food, an acceleration of plaque buildup most likely occurs.

The effects of plaque buildup

The prominent symptoms of plaque buildup include chronic bad breath, facial swelling, difficulty in chewing food, swollen and bleeding gums, toothache, and tooth sensitivity. While these issues alone are enough to increase teeth maintenance, plaque provides a plethora of other problems. Gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis are also caused by excessive plaque.

Tooth infections, decay, loss of teeth, and cavities are also problems plaque can cause. Plaque is usually only a significant issue when it solidifies and forms tartar, but it can cause several issues to a person’s oral health even before that occurs. Its effects are harmful if not taken care of.

Prevention and solutions

The most important factor in preventing plaque buildup is maintaining good dental hygiene and flossing daily before brushing your teeth, using fluoride toothpaste after every meal, and after waking up. Regular visits to your family dentist at a minimum of twice a year, the use of mouth wash, and chewing sugarless gum are helpful in plaque buildup prevention. If plaque has built up in excess, then the consultation of a medical professional is recommended.

Methodologies to treat and prevent plaque buildup have been developed, dental sealant being one of them. It is used to avoid plaque from forming on top of the tooth’s chewing surface. Dry mouth medications are also sometimes given to increase the production of saliva. Fluoride treatments are used to prevent bacteria buildup and stop tooth decay. Some prescription toothpaste and mouthwashes are also given to patients to prevent further plaque formation.

Tartar, which is solidified plaque, presents a major issue. It cannot be treated at home and instead requires dental professionals to scrape the teeth. Dental professionals highly recommend that people prevent plaque buildup to that point, and instead of having their teeth scraped every few months, maintain good oral hygiene.

Recommendations for the concerned

While a standard and easy-to-fix problem, plaque can be exceptionally bothersome and may become a source of pain and oral disease. Prevention over cure is still the most common recommendation by many dentists. Prevention can be achieved through regular dental care and controlling the consumption of certain foods. Dental checkups from your family dentist are considered an equally important requirement in this regard, just like routine physical checkups.

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