Are you experiencing a buildup of plaque on your teeth? Here, we’ll explain what plaque is, what causes it, and how to reverse plaque build up on your teeth.
What Is Plaque?
A colorless, sticky, soft film, plaque is made up of bacteria and develops at your gum line and on your teeth. Though the bacteria naturally exists in your mouth, when you don’t brush your teeth twice a day, it can build up and develop into plaque and causes your teeth to have that fuzzy feeling. When the plaque builds up, it produces acids which weaken tooth enamel. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar which adheres to your teeth and gums and can cause serious oral health issues like cavities and gum disease. It also can only be removed by a dentist so tartar is not something you want to mess with.
What Causes Plaque?
As mentioned above, plaque is composed of bacteria that naturally occurs in your mouth. When that bacteria combines with saliva, fluids, and food particles, it creates a film that sits on the surface of teeth and at the gumline. While this is completely natural, the film can become plaque when the bacteria combines with sugar and produces acids that wear away at your tooth enamel. Therefore, if you eat a diet high in sugars and carbs you are more at risk for developing plaque when the sugars are left over in your mouth. And if you do not practice good oral health practices of brushing your teeth and flossing then the sugar will stay in your mouth, bacteria will feed on it, and plaque will develop.
How Do You Reverse Plaque Buildup on Your Teeth?
A great way to reverse plaque buildup on your teeth is by coming in for regular checkups and cleanings. At Dental Solutions of Columbus, we can help remove plaque with a professional cleaning of your teeth every six months (which is how often your dental insurance will cover a checkup and cleaning). Additionally, practicing good oral health practices every single day will reduce your risk of developing plaque and banish the existing plaque buildup. This means brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, floss at least once a day, and use a fluoride toothpaste. A diet low in sugar is also vital to reversing plaque build up on your teeth so swap out that candy for foods high in vitamins, minerals, protein, and calcium to keep your teeth healthy and plaque-free.
Contact Us with Your Questions
If you have any other questions about how to reverse plaque buildup on your teeth, or any other oral health issue, please contact our office today! We will answer your questions and schedule a consultation or appointment for you.