Plaque is one of the most common oral health disorders. There are several ways to prevent it. Before learning about prevention, it’s important to know what plaque is, its symptoms and causes, and how to cure it! If you want, read in!
What is Plaque and How is It Caused?
Plaque is bacteria accumulation on teeth. When sweet or junk food particles stick to your teeth, a film of bacteria grows. They feed on the leftover food particles and release an acidic substance on digestion.
What are the Symptoms of Plaque?
One of the most common symptoms of plaque is cavities. If the bacteria remain on your teeth for long, it damages the surface layer of teeth, causing cavities. Other symptoms include gum soreness, redness, inflammation, and irritation. If plaque spreads beyond control, it can cause gum bleeding. Besides affecting the gums, tooth sensitivity and toothache are the other two major symptoms of plaque.
Preventive Measures for Plaque
To prevent plaque, follow the tips below:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Do not brush for less than 2 minutes each time
- Brush or rinse properly after eating sugary and junk foods
- Never skip flossing as it helps remove bacteria from tight areas in the mouth
- Use a good quality mouth rinse to keep your mouth healthy
- Add cranberries to your diet as they contain good bacteria that fight plaque
- Visit your dentist regularly to stay unharmed by plaque
What Happens to Plaque if Not Treated on time?
If the plaque is not cleaned over time, it hardens to form tartar. It also causes severe oral health issues like periodontitis, tooth decay, sensitivity, and tooth loss. Inflammation in the mouth is also a common problem people suffer from plaque.
To stay away from these adverse effects, follow all the preventive measures. Visit a good dentist for regular checkups. They will check your oral health for plaque and prescribe medications or procedures to help you.
Are you wondering which dentist will be the best for your oral health? Get in touch with us! We have the best panel of dental experts like Dr. Jeanne V. Devi, DDS, and her team of dental assistants who can provide you with affordable treatments for all your dental problems. Call us at (626) 795-2544 or visit our website for more details. We are located at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101.
