What’s
that on your Teeth?
By Kara Dillon, RDH-E
Have
you ever slid your tongue around and noticed your teeth
felt different? Not quite as smooth as they should be….kind
of rough and almost fuzzy? That fuzziness is called plaque
build-up and it’s constantly forming on our teeth.
The
dictionary defines plaque as “a clear, sticky
film of mucus and bacteria on a tooth surface.” Mucus
and bacteria, you say? How disgusting! Well, we all have
saliva that is produced by our bodies to help with the digestive
process. We also have thousands of bacteria that naturally
live in our mouths. But where does that sticky and stinky
plaque come from and how does it form?
As
I previously mentioned, we all have bacteria that live
in our mouths. Those microscopic
creatures live off of what we eat, and they thrive on foods
that are high in sugar and other carbohydrates (pastries,
grains, pasta, and bread). Plaque is the product that is
produced from the bacteria after they eat the sugars and
carbohydrates.
It
is very damaging to our teeth, gums, and surrounding bone
because it contains acid and other
harmful
chemicals. The bacteria multiply quickly and more plaque
is produced if we don’t keep it off our teeth. Plaque
contributes to tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease.
In other words, it can be very detrimental to our oral health. Each
of us has the power to control how much plaque builds up
on our teeth. Brushing and flossing every day help remove
the plaque from the surfaces of the teeth, between the teeth,
and under the gums. Eat healthier foods that are low in sugar
and carbohydrates. With less plaque, there are fewer bacteria
to make the acids that eat away your teeth.
Not
having your teeth cleaned by your dentist or hygienist
also allows plaque
to build up. Your dentist or dental hygienist scrapes off
the plaque and tartar, giving your teeth a "clean start." Regular
visits to your dentist for cleaning and checkups can help
prevent tooth decay and also catch other dental problems
early, before they become serious.
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