If you’ve ever been to the dentist, chances are you’ve heard the word “plaque” mentioned in relation to the cleaning of your teeth. You may even be aware that it can coat the surfaces of your teeth. But is it harmful? What is plaque, exactly? How can it be prevented or removed? Balboa Victory Dental Office wants all of our patients to understand all the various aspects of oral health and hygiene. To that end, here is a brief overview of what plaque is, what it does, and what you need to do to keep it from causing problems.
Plaque is a film of bacteria that can adhere to and grow on the surfaces in your mouth. When it is allowed to grow on your teeth, it can lead to all sorts of problems. Bacterial consumption of sugars can lead to tooth degradation and decay, as well as gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Plaque formation is a natural process in your mouth, and it cannot be prevented. That would be disturbing information were it not for the fact that plaque is very easy to remove. Regular teeth brushing and flossing will constantly eliminate plaque, keeping it off your teeth and preventing future problems. Plaque will also grow in places that are hard to clean, which is why it’s important to schedule regular cleanings with our Encino dentist.
If plaque is allowed to continue growing, it may eventually harden to become calculus, or tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing, and must be removed professionally by a dentist. The lesson here is one you may have heard before: Take care of your teeth! Brush and floss on a regular basis, and visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings. Balboa Victory Dental Office of Encino is here to help you keep the plaque away. Contact us today!
