What is Plaque?

Individuals with yellowed teeth may have a buildup of plaque. Plaque forms on tooth surfaces from deposits of bacteria. Scientific researchers have identified hundreds of species of bacteria that live in a human’s mouth. However, there are actually thousands of bacterial species that live in the human mouth. Dentists know that because teeth remain in the mouth for many years bacteria can easily cover dental surfaces. Regular brushing and flossing of teeth can prevent plaque from destroying tooth surfaces. In addition, proper dental hygiene assists in avoiding painful infections to tissues inside the mouth.

Dental Cavities

The sticky and yellow material on an individual’s teeth is actually biofilm. Biofilm is dangerous to the surfaces of teeth, gums, bones and ligaments inside the mouth. There are studies that reveal that dental plaque can cause additional health problems such as heart disease. Bacteria from plaque commonly cause cavities and gum disease in children, teenagers and adults. Tooth decay from plaque’s bacteria requires immediate treatment from a dental professional. Small cavities in teeth are easily repaired with color matching composite material by a dentist. 

Gum Disease

However, plaque inside the mouth can cause issues that are more serious for individuals. Patients at dental offices often have serious inflammation of the tissues inside the mouth. The bacterium that creates plaque infects the gums causing gingivitis and other diseases. An individual must begin treatment quickly when gum tissue is infected. Symptoms of infection include gums that bleed, bright red gums, tender tissue and bad breath. The gum tissue between teeth may swell and appear shiny. Patients will have difficulties brushing dental surfaces, flossing and chewing food. In addition, a patient may have an unpleasant taste in their mouth.

Ways to Prevent Plaque

Individuals should have a dental examination twice a year. During an examination, a dentist can repair small cavities while removing excess plaque buildup. Methods to remove bacterial plaque from the mouth include surgical removal of gum tissue, root planing and dental scaling. If a patient has recurring plaque, then a dentist can recommend better cleaning methods. A patient might be able to use a specialized over-the-counter or prescription mouth rinse solution to assist in destroying harmful bacteria. Specialized devices such as electronic dental cleaning machines using pressurized water can also assist with avoiding plaque buildup.

Serious Plaque Complications

Individuals can develop periodontitis conditions that involve infections in the bones of the face. This infection destroys the bones and ligaments holding the teeth in place. As a result, the teeth begin to loosen inside the mouth. Prompt medical treatment is necessary to prevent loss of teeth. Patients often have deep pockets along their dental gumline where enzymes accumulate destroying ligaments and bone. The gums can also recede or shrink causing the teeth to appear longer. Chewing harder foods or flossing teeth may also cause the gums to bleed frequently. A patient may have a metallic taste in their mouth or horrible breath odor due to constant blood loss.

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