What is dental plaque?

Dental plaque is a dental biofilm, which is soft and very sticky. Generally colourless, it can manifest as a pale-yellow (unwanted) shading on your teeth.

Dental plaque is formed through:

• Saliva

• Fluids, and

• Food particles.

The bacteria from these three things cling to your teeth, mostly along the gum line, producing acid that attacks your tooth enamel. If food particles remain on your teeth and dental plaque isn’t removed, it will harden/mineralise, trapping stains and turn into tartar.

We all drink fluids, eat food and produce saliva. So, although we cannot avoid dental plaque completely, we can take steps to prevent it from turning into something worse.

How is dental plaque removed and reduced?

To remove dental plaque while it’s still soft, it’s essential to brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes. Flossing helps a great deal too in removing the sticky film close to the gum line.

Bacteria form dental plaque from the combination of food, drinks and saliva. Food and drinks high in carbohydrates and sugars increase plaque formation – like milk, soft drinks, lollies, cakes and fruit.

Reduce plaque by sticking to a well-balanced diet, and food that is low in sugar such as plain yoghurt, cheese and vegetables. Leafy greens and celery are saliva-producers and great at fighting back against dental plaque.

Where can I go for dental plaque removal?

If you keep on top of a good oral hygiene routine you can easily remove dental plaque yourself. However, if dental plaque is getting out of hand and turning into tartar, then it’s a good time to book an appointment with your dentist, Karana Downs Dental to discuss your oral hygiene.

With high-quality services at affordable rates, Karana Downs Dental are your trusted dentists.

We pride ourselves on top-level patient care and satisfaction and offer everything from general check-ups and cleans to emergency dental procedures.

Our dental centre understands that going to the dentist shouldn’t be a luxury you can’t afford. Interest-free payment plans are available and as preferred providers for many health insurers, we’ll guarantee great service and affordable prices that make you smile.

Don’t let dental plaque plague your life. Contact Karana Downs Dental today for a dental check-up and to see if your oral hygiene routine is working for you.