Plaque

Dental plaque is a layer of bacteria that forms on the hard surface of teeth. Plaque occurs in everyone due to normal eating, drinking, and smoking habits. If treated with daily brushing and flossing or removed by regular dental cleanings, plaque is relatively harmless. However, when left untreated, plaque weakens the surface of the tooth, making it more susceptible to oral health problems, including cavities, bad breath, gingivitis, and gum disease.

If your teeth feel sticky, rough, or “fuzzy,” that’s likely a layer of plaque forming. In this stage, plaque can be easily removed by brushing. If left alone, the bacteria continue feeding on the sugars and carbs we eat and drink. The film hardens into a substance called tartar, which cannot be removed without the help of a dentist.

While plaque is clear and colorless, tartar is opaque and white when it forms. However, it can absorb colors from the person’s diet, darkening in the presence of coffee, red wine, tea, or tobacco. Untreated tartar buildup gradually eats away at the bone and tissue surrounding the affected teeth. This eventually leads to gum inflammation, tooth abscesses, and even tooth loss.

Those who suffer from dry mouth are more susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup. In these cases, your dentist may prescribe more intense fluoride treatments, dental sealants, or antibacterial mouthwash. They may also prescribe treatment for the root cause of the dry mouth.

‍