![]() ![]() In addition, our saliva will act to buffer the PH (acidity) of the oral cavity to levels that these bacteria thrive at. Our own saliva no less contains primary nutrients such as amino-acids, proteins and glycoproteins (these again!) which feed the bacteria in the early stages of plaque formation. These bacteria all occur naturally in the oral cavity and are normally harmless.ĭental plaque forms because the warm and moist environment of the mouth and the presence of teeth make for a good environment for its growth and development. Although over 100 different bacterial species can make up the plaque biofilm, the bulk are Streptococcus mutans and other anaerobic species. These initial bacteria begin to spread throughout the mouth, multiplying and maturing, eventually forming micro-colonies otherwise known as the plaque biofilm. This essentially acts as an adhesive that, within hours of forming, bacteria can bind to. Those ‘clean’ tooth surfaces are immediately bathed in saliva and colonised by what we refer to as salivary pellicles, the composition of which is predominantly glycoproteins. Let’s assume you’ve just brushed and flossed your teeth and gums meticulously. It is actually a ‘biofilm’ that attaches to the tooth surface, dental restorations and prosthetic appliances ( dentures, crowns and bridges). So what’s all the fuss about this Dental Plaque thing? Time for a bit of science…ĭental plaque starts out as a sticky, colourless deposit. So an otherwise innocent ten-second kiss can potentially spread up to 80 million bacteria between mouths!Įating foods high in sugar like cakes, sweets, soft drinks and even fruit can lead to an increase in certain bacteria such as streptococcus mutans, which start to overpopulate the mouth and shift the normal harmonious, healthy environment into one which can predispose to dental decay and gum disease. These bacteria normally live in harmony with each other (symbiosis) limiting the build-up of certain bacteria that can be harmful to us and in particular our teeth and gums.įUN FACT: Many of these bacteria can cause tooth decay and are spreadable just like an infectious disease. In our mouths alone, it is documented there are in excess of 8 billion bacteria and over 300 different species. In fact, what you are seeing is a dental plaque, the sworn enemy of your teeth and gums, brought on by bacterial buildup. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and other harmful substances.Have you ever had that fuzzy feeling on the surface of your teeth? Or looked at your floss after you’ve used it and wondered what that white, sticky blob on it is? On the first inspection, that blob may look like a small piece of bread but as you look closer you may realise that it is something else.Use a fluoride toothpaste to remineralize your enamel.Floss at least once daily and more if you’re chewing tougher foods.Brush your teeth twice a day every day for at least two minutes.These healthy oral habits can help you prevent both plaque and tartar from growing in your mouth: Proper oral hygiene is the best defense against plaque and tartar buildup. How Do You Prevent Plaque & Tartar Buildup? Tartar is hard and strongly bonded to the tooth, requiring a dental professional to remove properly and completely. ![]() Tartar buildup can cause gum irritation and inflammation, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious oral health problems. ![]() It is a mineralized form of plaque and can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hard, yellow or brown-colored deposit that forms on the teeth and below the gum line. In the simplest terms, plaque is soft and easily removed. If plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. It can develop within hours after brushing and flossing and is caused by the interaction of bacteria in the mouth with food and saliva. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. Plaque and tartar are two different substances that can accumulate on the teeth and contribute to oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. If tartar isn’t removed quickly, serious oral health issues can develop including advanced gum disease, tooth loss and bone loss. People with dry mouth, crowded teeth, braces, as well as the elderly have a higher chance of suffering from tartar buildup. Tartar requires a dental professional to scrape, pick, or drill off of the tooth because the buildup creates a strong bond to the tooth enamel. Tartar is a hardened mineral and saliva combination that’s crusty yellow or brown in color. ![]()
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