What is Plaque?

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. When we eat the bacteriain plaque release acids that attack the enamel of our teeth. These repeated attacks can cause the enamel to weaken, eventually causing tooth decay. Since many of the foods we eat cause plaque bacteria to produce acid, it is very important that you brush and clean between your teeth daily. Plaque that is not removed will eventually harden into calculus or tartar. This kind of build up irritates the gums making them red and tender causing them to bleed. Over time the gums may recede from your teeth forming pockets that can fill with bacteria and puss. If you do not have your gums treated, the bone around the teeth can get destroyed causing the teeth to become loose and possibly needing to be removed. The main cause of tooth loss in adults is caused by periodontal disease. How can you prevent this from happening to you? Brushing twice daily, cleaning between your teeth ,using a fluoride toothpaste, eating a well balanced diet and visiting your dentist regularly will help you keep your gums healthy giving you a beautiful smile!