Dental Plaque Removal: Exploring the Different Types and Risks
A sticky film appears on teeth after eating or drinking is Dental plaque. Bacteria in the mouth break carbohydrates in foods and drinks forming acids. This combination of food debris, bacteria, and acid is known as dental plaque. Dental plaque removal is essential because plaque can lead to cavities and gum diseases.
The best way to remove dental plaque is to practice good oral hygiene. American Dental Association (ADA) has recommended brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day to maintain good oral hygiene.
Types of Dental Plaque
Dental plaque is broadly classified on the basis of its location:Supragingival plaque
Supragingival plaque is found above gingival margins and crown part of teeth. It can be seen clinically. Rate of supragingival plaque accumulation varies as per diet, age, salivary function, and heredity factors.
Subgingival plaque
Subgingival plaque is found below the gingival margin between teeth and gingival sulcus. It cannot be seen clinically and can be detected by running periodontal probe around gingival margin.
Tartar VS Plaque
Tartar is hardened plaque. If you don’t remove plaque regularly, it will turn into tartar. At this point, you can’t brush or floss it away. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove it. Dental calculus is another name for tartar. Tartar might be off-white or yellow at first. But after a while, it will take on the color of whatever foods or substances you consume.
Dangers of Untreated Plaque
Following are the complications that might occur if dental plaque left untreated and become tartar:
- Gum diseases
- Tooth infection
- Tooth mobility
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
Effective Plaque Removal Techniques
1. Brushing
It is recommended to brush your teeth twice per day, once in the morning and before bed. It removes the bacteria from the mouth and minimizes the chances of plaque build-up.
2. Flossing
Flossing before brushing is more beneficial as it can loosen up the food that is stuck between teeth. Research has found that flossing before brush ensures tooth plaque removal from interdental spaces and then brushing with fluoride toothpaste increases the retention of fluoride between teeth.
3. Mouthwash
Anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to wipe off bacteria from tongue and soft tissues. It also helps to maintain fresh breath free from germs.
4. Professional dental cleaning
If a person ignores oral care routine, then plaque becomes hardened tartar. This tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. Dentists remove this tartar buildup with ultrasonic scalers (plaque removal tool). Dental cleaning is the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from tooth surfaces
5. Saltwater rinse
Salt is a natural disinfectant and eliminates bacteria from the mouth. Saltwater rinses after every meal neutralizes the acidic oral environment and wash bacteria from oral cavity.
Preventing Plaque Formation
Plaque formation is common and everyone gets plaque on their teeth. Removing dental plaque is important or else it will cause tooth decay, gum diseases, and other dental issues. Following tips can help to prevent plaque formation:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Consume less sugary food
- Healthy oral hygiene practices
- Dental check-ups every 6 months
