Have you ever woken up in the morning and noticed your teeth feel like they have a fuzzy coating? If morning breath hasn’t clued you in, then this film should be one of the first reminders to brush your teeth. The grimy feeling in your mouth is caused by plaque, and if it’s not removed, it can lead to all sorts of oral complications down the road. In addition, gum disease (also known as periodontal disease which can be caused by plaque buildup), has shown some compelling links to a two to three times increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular events.
The scientific term for plaque is “biofilm.” In a nutshell, it’s a layer of bacteria that is constantly forming on the surface of your teeth. You may be startled to discover that there is an entire ecosystem living inside your mouth. In fact, your mouth is home over 700 different species of bacteria! Plaque forms when bacteria combine with sugar from the foods you eat, such as those found in juice, soft drinks, bread, pasta and fruit.
Not all of the bacteria are bad. Some help break down proteins in your food for easier digestion. Others actually protect your teeth and prevent tooth decay. However, allowing too much bacteria to linger in your mouth for too long is like a house guest overstaying their welcome. They begin to become a nuisance, releasing acids that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
If plaque isn’t removed through brushing and flossing, it begins to harden into a yellow or brown deposit on the teeth within 24 to 72 hours. This is what’s known as tartar, or dental calculus. Tartar continues to build up over time, eventually becoming visible and unsightly. The bacteria in tartar can also irritate the gums and lead to gum disease.
Plaque, tartar and your oral health
If not properly removed, plaque and tartar can lead to several complications in your mouth, including:
Cavities: the destruction of tooth enamel which cause holes to form in your teeth.
Gingivitis: irritation, redness and swelling of the gums.
Halitosis: chronic bad breath.
Tooth and gum infection: a collection of pus and bacteria that forms inside the tooth or gum.
Tooth decay and tooth loss: the destruction of the tooth and its roots, causing the tooth to fall out.
How to prevent plaque and tartar from forming
The easiest way to get rid of plaque is through regular brushing and flossing. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride makes the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and prevents decay.
However, brushing alone can’t remove plaque that has settled between your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends flossing between your teeth at least once a day. It doesn’t matter if you brush or floss first. Flossing doesn’t even have to be done at the same time as brushing, just as long as you do it.
Mouthwash may also be a good addition to your oral hygiene routine. Like flossing, it can target hard-to-reach places your toothbrush can’t, eliminating additional bacteria. Some mouthwashes even have the benefit of added fluoride. Keep in mind, mouthwash should always be used in conjunction with, but never in replacement of, brushing and flossing.
Since the bacteria in your mouth feeds on sugar, try to limit your intake of sugary foods. Instead, opt for fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Regularly drinking water further dilutes harmful acids. Many municipal water sources also contain additional fluoride.
Once tartar has formed, the only way to remove it is through a dental professional. That’s why it’s important to see a dentist every six months for a routine cleaning. Your dentist will not only remove any accumulated buildup, but also examine your mouth to ensure your smile continues to be as healthy as it can be.