Dental Plaque it is a bacteria deposit left on our teeth – everyone gets it because bacteria is constantly forming in our mouths. It is very important to our dental health to stay on top of it and don’t let it harden into harmful tartar.
Biofilm
Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to have no dental plaque in our mouths. Just few hours after brushing our teeth biofilm is forming on our teeth. Biofilm is an organised group of microorganisms that consist of good and bad bacteria. To maintain a good oral health our aim is to limit our biofilm to just healthy bacteria. Biofilm left on our teeth for too long will thrive on ingredients such as sugar found in our diet and saliva. Ultimately biofilm will mineralize and turn into tartar that can be damaging to our gums causing irritation and inflammation and can eventually lead to gum disease. Besides the gum disease, plaque causes cavities when the acids from plaque attack teeth after eating. Through repeated acid attacks, the tooth enamel can break down and a cavity may form.
Cleaning Your Teeth
This is where a good teeth cleaning regime comes in to place. Brushing our teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once just before going to sleep is essential. Toothpastes consist of ingredients that reacts on to the unhealthy bacteria and gets rid of it for us but it is vital to remember that our toothbrush is not able to reach all surfaces of our teeth. Flossing at least once a day will remove the bacteria in between our teeth and under the gumline. Our diet should be rich in healthy foods such as fresh vegetables, leafy greens, fruits and nuts. We should limit sugary, starchy foods and snacks. Our diet makes a big difference when it comes to a healthy smile.
Dental Hygienist
Visiting dental team regularly for dental examinations and hygiene appointments for professional cleaning is very beneficial for your oral health. Dental Hygienist will remove tartar that has formed in those difficult to reach areas by using mechanical means such as ultrasonic cleaner that breaks tartar into small pieces. At the end of the appointment our teeth will get polished which will give it a smooth finish and will prevent stains build up for longer. Furthermore, the polishing paste contains fluoride that makes our teeth stronger and more resistant to bacterial acids.