Do you want to avoid cavities? We all do! Patients frequently ask how they can reduce their risk of cavities, and the simplest answer is also the most effective: get rid of plaque. This thin film is a buildup of bacteria that has combined with acid, starches, or sugar, and slowly erodes your teeth. Eventually, plaque can cause discoloration, cavities, and tooth loss that requires implants to restore.
This post will delve into where dental plaque comes from and how you can protect your smile.
Plaque Defined
Anyone who has ever visited a dentist or looked up dental hygiene tips has heard of plaque. This substance is a combination of naturally occurring bacteria and food particles. When you eat or drink anything containing acidic ingredients, sugar, or starches, plaque will form.
Plaque forms on teeth up to 12 hours after eating or drinking something. Those with a high-sugar or high-starch diet are more likely to have plaque buildup.
It is the leading cause of cavities, tooth decay, gum disease (gingivitis), and tooth loss. The good news is that practicing good dental hygiene can prevent these issues in most cases.
What Happens When You Don’t Remove Plaque
Plaque left to linger on teeth turns into a harder substance called tartar. While plaque is a soft, thin film, tartar is hard and often makes teeth appear yellow or brown. It takes about 48 hours for plaque to harden, after which you will need a dentist to effectively remove the tartar from your teeth.
Preventing Plaque Buildup
There are a few steps you can take to protect your teeth and prevent cavities:
- Brush your teeth two or three times a day
- Floss at least once every day
- Avoid high-sugar and starchy foods
- See your dentist for regular cleanings
Restore Your Smile With Dr. Samuel Jirik, DDS
Has plaque or tooth decay caused you to lose teeth? Do you want to treat discoloration and have a dazzling white smile? We can help. Dr. Jirik is a passionate dentist in Cabot, AK, who loves helping patients find the right restorative and cosmetic procedures for their teeth. Please submit a contact form or call our office at (501) 843-9561 to schedule your next visit.
