What Is Plaque?

At May Conte D.D.S. we are proponents of prevention rather than treating dental disease after it develops. One of our essential preventive measures is combatting the effects of dental plaque on your smile.
Dental plaque is a thin, sticky film that houses millions of bacteria & constantly forms on the teeth. It usually appears colorless but can sometimes have a yellowish tint. If not removed by daily brushing, flossing, & professional dental cleanings, dental plaque can cause a host of dental health problems!
Plaque is the root cause of numerous oral health conditions. Plaque bacteria turn sugars you consume into acids that wear away at your tooth enamel, resulting in decay & cavities. Plaque also contributes to bad breath (halitosis) & dingy, discolored teeth.
If left sitting, plaque eventually hardens to tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. As the plaque, tartar, & bacteria continue to accumulate, the gums become red, puffy, and sensitive.
If plaque & tartar buildup lingers, you may end up with swollen and bleeding gums, indicating gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum (periodontal) disease. Only this stage is fully reversible with the help of professional dental cleanings & meticulous oral hygiene practices. However, if not treated, gingivitis will advance to periodontitis, a destructive form of gum disease. The infection can break down & destroy the bone & tissue supporting the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
There is no way to eliminate plaque altogether, but there are things you can do to help prevent it from accumulating & hardening to tartar. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush & fluoride toothpaste & clean between your teeth daily using dental floss or an interdental cleaner. Don’t forget to visit May Conte D.D.S. Cosmetic, Implant, & Family Dentistry twice a year for your routine dental exams & cleanings. We will clean your teeth thoroughly & remove any plaque or tartar deposits. We will also evaluate every aspect of your oral health to ensure your smile stays in tip-top shape.
Contact May Conte D.D.S. Cosmetic, Implant, & Family Dentistry to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning. We give you tips on maintaining proper oral hygiene practices and will ensure your teeth and gums stay clean & healthy. We invite you to experience preventive dentistry at its best. Call us today!
For more information and to meet Dr. May, call the office at 661-505-2926. Visit us also at www.maycontedds.com