Dental plaque - why it's harmful and how to avoid it



Dental plaque is a film made up of bacteria and their by-products which which covers the surfaces of all the structures in the mouth.

Just like in the gut/digestive system, the mouth is comprised of a variety of micro flora (bacterial species) which acts in equilibrium. Ideally the bacteria of the mouth should be balanced and could be considered free from disease. However when the factors affecting plaque are disturbed or unbalanced, it can lead to a shift from normal.

There are many factors which affect dental plaque including some of the following: 

Inadequacy of plaque removal causing retention and maturation of bacteria
  • Brushing technique
  • Brushing frequency
  • Flossing habits
Diet intake
  • Beverages; particularly sweetened, acidic and caffeinated drinks
Immune system
  • Compromised natural defence against bacteria
Saliva flow
  • Food removal from the mouth
  • Hydration; consistency and volume produced (caffeine reduces saliva flow)
  • Quality of saliva; can be altered by medications, damage to saliva ducts and auto immune conditions
Smoking
  • Increases pathogenic bacteria
  • Smoke inhalation and heat alters the oral environment
  • Odour causing bad breath
Side effects of medication
  • Altering the saliva composition and compromising plaque-fighting mechanisms

There are two main categories of plaque based on where it is found in the mouth


Supra gingival plaque
Subgingival plaque

  • Located above the gum line
  • Found on the enamel surfaces of the teeth
  • Can be removed by brushing and flossing
  • Causes staining on the teeth
  • Related to tooth decay, cavities and tooth aches
  • Can grow beneath the gums if not removed with oral hygiene


  • Located below the gum line
  • Found on the root surfaces of teeth
  • Can only be removed by professional scaling and deep cleaning.
  • Related to bleeding gums, gum disease and loss of bone supporting the teeth
  • Aggressive bacterial species, particularly in smokers
  • Initiates the immune system



Why is it harmful?

Dental plaque is harmful as it is the basis of what causes the two major oral diseases:

Periodontal disease (gum disease)
  • Imbalance in plaque builds up beneath the gum, remains undisturbed for a period of time and induces the body's response to permanently reduce bone support, leading to mobility and tooth loss, if untreated
  • Causes the inflamed gums to peel back from the surface of the tooth, causing periodontal packets and gingival recession, appearing 'long in the tooth'.
  • Bad bacteria can enter the blood stream via the gums and potentially lodge in the arteries of the heart, increasing chance and potential severity of heart disease
Dental caries (tooth decay)
  • Dental plaque remains undisturbed on the surface of a tooth
  • The bacteria ferment sucrose to form acid which dissolves the minerals of enamel. Frequent exposure to sugars escalates this process to significantly weaken the enamel enough to form a cavity.
  • Once the bacteria enters the inner surface of the tooth, it has the potential to damage the nerve and cause sensitivity. This sensitivity can progress to aches, pains and possibly infection.


How to avoid plaque

  • Twice daily brushing, using a soft brush
  • Daily interdental cleaning with floss or interdental brushes
  • Keep hydrated with plenty of water
  • Avoid sweetened beverages and snacks in between meals
  • Get your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year
  • Screening for gum disease
  • Consult with your dentist about medications and your immune system
  • Have your saliva tested
  • Quit smoking
  • Maintain gum disease with the help of an Oral Health Therapist

We recommend all patients apply appropriate ongoing care in the battle against dental plaque! If you are interested in a dental check up to assess your situation, call us on 1300 785 592 or book your free consultation through our website.

Comments

  1. At our dental care our mission is to treat our patients with the utmost respect. We want our patients to feel comfortable during their visits and we will always strive to do everything we can to meet their needs. Amazing Dental discount plans

    ReplyDelete
  2. It's very informative blog, thanks for sharing this between us. People suffering from dental problem use tactics such as covering the mouth while speaking or they do not talk at all. If you have any teeth problems, then contact and visit our Orthodontic Offices Near Me.

    ReplyDelete
  3. This gives a lot of good information regarding on some dental problems that is common to our individual health. Good thing that you have posted some relevant information's here. This gives a significant terms to some dental implants los angeles who gives an immediate response during dental emergency.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it; you are a great author. I will make sure to bookmark your blog and may come back someday. I want to encourage that you continue your great post
    offshore safety course in chennai

    ReplyDelete
  5. People never leave anything acidic on your teeth for to long, it will eat your enamel. Baking soda is the best route, but it's abrasive so don't use it to much.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Nice post, cleaning of Dental Plaque is very important, it generates tartar, which can damage your teeth by creating holes in your teeth. Have regular dental checkup to avoid various dental problems caused by plaque. Thanks for sharing this wonderful post and keep sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Thanks for creating such an informational article, it’s just awesome. It helps me very much regarding information about the dental care.
    Cosmetic Dentistry in Fremont

    ReplyDelete
  8. Excellent post! It is very useful to read for the users and keep post more blogs for more useful information.endodontic treatment san jose

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thank you for sharing this important information. We must work together with other specialties to truly take care of our patients better. The team at Smile Again dental Group is comprised of experienced and highly skilled dentists who are dedicated to helping their patients achieve the best smile makeover dentist.

    ReplyDelete
  10. We welcome any questions you may have. Visit Dr. OmParkash Dental, the Best Dentist in Amritsar, when you're prepared for the most delicate dental procedures. We hold ourselves accountable for managing our resources well, conducting ourselves in an ethical and responsible manner, and being forthright and truthful in all that we do. Contact Now ! +918045612345

    ReplyDelete
  11. I want to thanks from bottom of my heart to share this helpful post.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

First aid for dental injuries - treatment and prevention tips!

A few things about Orthodontics that you may not know!

November Staff Spotlight - Laura Hedges