Dental plaque is a sticky pale yellow or colorless coating that forms on the teeth. It occurs when food particles and bacteria mix. When left untreated, bacteria in the plaque can produce acids, which can cause gum diseases and cavities. Plaque can also develop below the gum line, which can destroy the bones supporting the teeth.
Who is at high risk of getting plaque?
Dental plaque occurs when foods high in sugar and starch are left on the teeth. Bacteria in the mouth will feed on the food remnants to produce acid. In this case, you are at high risk of getting plaque if you consume a lot of sugary and starchy items.
A dry mouth is another cause of dental plaque. When you have a dry mouth, you lack enough saliva to wash away food particles. Saliva also helps in neutralizing acids and limits bacteria growth in the mouth. In this case, it is advisable to stay hydrated to prevent a dry mouth. Besides, you'll likely get plaque if you have receding gums. When gums pull away from the teeth, plaque can form below the gum line or on the roots of the teeth.
Oral issues related to dental plaque
Anyone can have a plaque. If you ignore proper dental hygiene, plaque will cause oral conditions. As you know, bacteria found in the plaque produce acids which can lower the PH level. They can also destroy the teeth' enamel, making your teeth susceptible to cavities. Plaque accumulation can also cause gum inflammation. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can result in the loosening of teeth and tooth loss.
The good thing is that combining good oral hygiene with regular dental cleaning can help to keep off dental plaque. Do you want to learn simple tips to prevent and eliminate dental plaque? Get in touch with our professionals to protect your oral health.
Dentist Ocoee, FL • Classic Smiles • Dental Blog Drs. Susanne and Mikal Baaqee have created this informative Dental Blog to help educate the community. Visit to Learn more and read our Blogs!!! Classic Smiles, 2677 Maguire Road, Ocoee FL 34761 / (407) 378-0139 / myclassicsmiles.com / 12/3/2023 / Page Terms:dentist Ocoee FL /
Dental plaque is a sticky pale yellow or colorless coating that forms on the teeth. It occurs when food particles and bacteria mix. When left untreated, bacteria in the plaque can produce acids, which can cause gum diseases and cavities. Plaque can also develop below the gum line, which can destroy the bones supporting the teeth.