FAQs About Dental Plaque

You hear a lot about dental plaque and the importance of preventing it, but how much do you know about it? Here are some questions our customers frequently have about plaque.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a sticky film that covers your teeth. Plaque forms in your mouth during the day and while you sleep. It contains several strains of bacteria, including good and bad bacteria. When you eat food, especially foods that are high in sugar, the bacteria in your mouth release acids to break down the sugars. These acids also attack tooth enamel.

Why Is It Harmful To Your Teeth?

Over time, the acids weaken your enamel. As the acids continue to break down your teeth, your mouth becomes vulnerable to infection and decay. Repeated attacks will cause further breakdown and lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease.

Are Plaque and Tartar the Same Thing?

They’re not the same thing, but they are related. If you don’t remove plaque, it eventually forms into tartar. Tartar contains minerals from your saliva that make it hard. Over time, a hard layer of tartar can build up on your teeth and gum line.

You can remove the early stages of tartar with regular flossing, but only a dentist can completely remove tartar buildup. Tartar usually builds up in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist for regular cleanings.

How Does Your Dental Professional Remove Plaque and Tartar?

Your dentist or dental hygienist uses special techniques to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.

Root planing: This removes plaque and tartar from the roots.
Scaling: This deep cleaning method removes heavy tartar buildup from teeth and gums.
Lasers: Some dental offices use lasers to remove tartar.

What’s the Best Way To Prevent Plaque Buildup?

You can’t get rid of plaque entirely, but you can prevent it from attacking your enamel and causing tooth decay.

Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Brush your teeth twice a day.
Floss once a day.
Get professional cleaning at your dentist’s office at least twice a year.
Quit or at least cut down on smoking.
If you have diabetes, get your blood sugar under control.

Do Mouthwashes Really Help Prevent Plaque?

A 2016 study found that using disinfecting, herbal, or probiotic mouthwashes can significantly reduce the amount of plaque in your mouth.

In the study, people who used mouthwash with regular brushing and flossing had lower rates of plaque and gingivitis than people who didn't. To get the most benefit from your mouthwash, swish, and gargle for a full minute before you spit it out.

Other studies have found that mouthwashes with essential oils are best for removing plaque and bacteria. Some well-known rinses contain menthol, thyme, wintergreen, and eucalyptus oils.

Get Clean, Healthy Teeth at Malan Family Dentistry

Malan Family Dentistry can keep your teeth clean with regular visits and in-depth cleaning. If you need help removing plaque and keeping it off, make an appointment with us today.