In your mouth, saliva and leftover food particles combine to form plaque, a sticky substance. After meals, it starts to form and build up on your teeth if you don't brush them properly. Plaque contains bacteria that can cause gum disease and tooth decay, so this is a problem. If plaque do form it is important to visit the best dental clinic in Delhi and get them removed.           

Describe plaque.

On teeth, a sticky film of bacteria known as plaque is constantly forming. After you eat or drink, bacteria in plaque start to produce acids. These acids have the power to erode tooth enamel, resulting in cavities and gingivitis (gum disease).

Additionally, plaque can form on tooth roots and gums, weakening the bones that support teeth. Untreated plaque can become tartar, which is difficult to remove. Plaque is removed by practising good oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing every day.

Features of dental plaque

·         Your teeth develop plaque both above and below the gum line. In addition to being unsightly, it can harm your teeth and gums if left untreated.

·         Because dental plaque starts to form on teeth 4–12 hours after brushing, it's crucial to brush thoroughly at least twice daily and use floss every day.

·         Oral hygiene issues Poor dental habits are the main cause of plaque and tartar buildup. In order to remove these particles on a daily basis, excellent oral hygiene is required. Snacking customs: Your natural oral bacteria will have more fuel to produce plaque and tartar if you snack more throughout the day.

·         Plaque is created when bacteria that is present in the mouth naturally combines with food scraps to form a sticky film. Untreated plaque becomes tartar when it hardens, becomes discolored, and is not removed.

·         Our advice is to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night. This is very effective at maintaining oral hygiene and preventing tartar from developing on your teeth, even though it might not be enough to completely remove tartar.

·         How can plaque buildup be avoided? The best method for removing plaque and maintaining healthy teeth and gums is to brush and floss twice a day.

Who might be more prone to develop plaque?

Despite the fact that everyone gets plaque, you might get more than usual if you:

1.       Eat or drink a lot of sweet or starchy things.

2.       Have dry mouth brought on by illnesses like Sjögren's syndrome or medications like antidepressants.

3.       Have had head or neck radiation in the past.

4.       Smoke.

How does plaque get treated ?

Plaque is removed and tartar buildup is prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing. Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth during an examination. Additionally, your provider might advise:

·         Plaque is prevented from growing on the top chewing surfaces of teeth by dental sealants.

·         medications for treating dry mouth to stimulate salivation

·         Fluoride treatments to stop tooth decay and slow the growth of bacteria that cause plaque.

·         Antibacterial mouthwash or prescription toothpaste (chlorhexidine).

How often should I see a doctor?

If any of the following occur, contact your healthcare provider right away:

Persistent bad breath

·         Facial edoema.

·         Missing tooth.

·         Chewing is painful or difficult.

·         Mouth redness outside or inside.

·         Other indications of gum disease, such as swollen, bleeding gums.

·         Mouth pain or tooth pain.

·         Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold foods or beverages.

·         Antibacterial mouthwash or prescription toothpaste (chlorhexidine).