Dental plaque is a soft bacterial deposit that forms on the surface area of your teeth. It is also referred to as dental biofilm. Some dental plaque can be removed by regular brushing and flossing, but without the added benefits of regular cleanings from your dentist, any dental plaque you missed on your own can harden into calculus, staining your teeth an embarrassing yellow. Calculus cannot be removed without a professional cleaning.
If you ignore proper oral hygiene, dental plaque has far more serious side effects than staining your teeth and causing embarrassment. Excessive dental plaque can cause periodontal disease, also known as gum disease or gingivitis. Gingivitis inflames your gums, making them very red and swollen. Symptoms include bleeding when you clean your teeth and sometimes discomfort or pain of the gums. Severe gingivitis becomes periodontitis. Periodontitis harms the connective tissue of your teeth and will loosen your teeth. You may also experience halitosis, very bad breath and significant pain.
Smoking, drinking alcohol, and diabetes can make you more vulnerable to periodontal disease. Untreated, periodontal disease will result in loss of your natural teeth. Brush and floss at least twice a day and have your teeth examined regularly by your dentist in Central Leeds. Great oral hygiene is vital to removing dental plaque and in turn preventing periodontal disease.
Tags: dental plaque, periodontal disease
