Dental plaque

Inadequate removal of plaque caused a build up of calculus (dark yellow color) near the gums on almost all the teeth.

Dental plaque is biofilm (usually colorless) that builds up on the teeth. If not removed regularly, it can lead to dental cavities (caries) or periodontal problems (such as gingivitis).

The microorganisms that form the biofilm are almost entirely bacteria (mainly Streptococcus mutans and anaerobes), with the composition varying by location in the mouth. Examples of such anaerobes include fusobacterium and Actinobacteria.

The microorganisms present in dental plaque are all naturally present in the oral cavity, and are normally harmless. However, failure to remove plaque by regular tooth brushing means that they are allowed to build up in a thick layer. Those microorganisms nearest the tooth surface convert to anaerobic respiration; it is in this state that they start to produce acids.

• Acids released from dental plaque lead to demineralization of the adjacent tooth surface, and consequently to dental caries. Saliva is also unable to penetrate the build-up of plaque and thus cannot act to neutralize the acid produced by the bacteria and remineralize the tooth surface.
• They also cause irritation of the gums around the teeth that could lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth loss.
• Plaque build up can also become mineralized and form calculus (tartar).

Dental Plaque removal - Prevent tooth plaque build up

Dental plaque removal is essential for maintaining good oral health. It's easy to prevent plaque build up with proper care.
Follow these tips on how to remove plaque from teeth :

• Brush thoroughly at least twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste, to remove plaque from your teeth
• Use dental floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gum line, where your toothbrush may not reach
• Check your teeth with plaque disclosing tablets to ensure removing tooth plaque.
• Control your diet. Limit sugary or starchy foods, especially sticky snacks
• Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if your plaque removal techniques are ok.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and dental examinations

You must know that some treatments are not always covered by dental insurance plans. Learn how to check the terms and choose a dental insurance plan that will provide the best coverage for you and your family.

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How to check for plaque - Dental Plaque Disclosing Tablets

Patients often believe that they brush correctly and deny to accept that they fail in tooth plaque removal, even if their dentist tells them about dental plaque formation when examining their teeth. Plaque on teeth is usually colorless and therefore can be difficult to see it and remove it during brushing.
Dental disclosing tablets and solutions stain the plaque build up on your teeth, allowing you to see how thoroughly you are brushing and flossing your teeth. They stain the bacteria making it easier to see where you have to brush again to remove dental plaque.
Plaque disclosing tablets and solutions are available without prescription from most pharmacies and they work by dyeing tooth plaque either blue or red. The active ingredients of disclosing products are usually dyes also used as food colourings. Erythrosine is the most common dental plaque dye in disclosing tablets and solutions.

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How to use Dental Plaque Disclosing Tablets and Solutions

• Use the plaque disclosing tablets or solution after brushing and flossing, following package instructions.
• Put some dental disclosing solution in your mouth or chew a disclosing tablet and allow it to mix with your saliva.
• Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out.
• Gently rinse your mouth with water, and examine your teeth for plaque colored by the dye. Because the dye stains all bacteria the tongue and gums also may get dyed.
• Check for stained (not properly cleaned) areas, usually the inside of the back teeth and behind the front teeth. Clean the stained areas to complete dental plaque removal. Next time you brush your teeth pay special attention to these areas.
• Use disclosing products regularly until you find no more stained areas of dental plaque formation after you brush and floss. Recheck after some weeks.