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; ca