Discover what your dentist wants you to know about plaque, decay and gum disease 

PLAQUE

The Major Cause of Decay and Gum Disease

Plaque is a sticky, invisible film of bacteria which forms on teeth and gums (to help you detect the invisible build up, use a disclosing dye from your dentist, which colours the plaque). If plaque is not removed and is allowed to build up on the teeth and near the gum margin, it can lead to tooth decay, gum inflammation and loss of teeth.

DECAY

The Major Cause of Cavities in Children and Teenagers

Plaque bacteria reacts with sugar to produce an acid which can dissolve the tooth surface. As acid erosion continues it penetrates the tooth enamel and forms cavities. Therefore thorough removal of plaque every day is vital to prevent these cavities

GUM DISEASE

The Major Cause of Tooth Loss in Adults

Gums which bleed easily when you clean your teeth indicate the first stages  of gum disease (gingivitis), caused by plaque build up. Thorough removal of  the plaque several times per day will help cure gum disease.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease involves inflammation and infection that destroys the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, the periodontal ligaments, and the tooth sockets (alveolar bone).

Gingivitis is due to the long-term effects of plaque deposits. Plaque is a sticky material made of bacteria, mucus, and food debris that develops on the exposed parts of the teeth.

It is a major cause of tooth decay. If you do not remove plaque, it turns into a hard deposit called tartar that becomes trapped at the base of the tooth.

Plaque and tartar irritate and inflame the gums. Bacteria and the toxins they produce cause the gums to become infected, swollen, and tender.

Injury to the gums from any cause, including overly vigorous brushing or flossing of the teeth, can cause gingivitis.

The following raise your risk for developing gingivitis:

• General illness

• Poor dental hygiene

• Pregnancy (hormonal changes increase the sensitivity of the gums)

• Uncontrolled diabetes

Misaligned teeth, rough edges of fillings, and ill-fitting or unclean mouth appliances (such as braces, dentures, bridges, and crowns) can irritate the gums and increase the risk of gingivitis.

Medications such as phenytoin and birth control pills, and heavy metals such as lead and bismuth are also associated with gingivitis.

Many people have gingivitis to a varying degree. It usually develops during puberty or early adulthood due to hormonal changes and may persist or recur frequently, depending on the health of your teeth and gums.

Treatment

The goal is to reduce inflammation. The teeth are cleaned thoroughly by the dentist or dental hygienist. This may involve various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth.

Careful oral hygiene is necessary after professional tooth cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will show you how to brush and floss. Professional tooth cleaning in addition to brushing and flossing may be recommended twice per year or more frequently for severe cases. Antibacterial mouth rinses or other aids may be recommended in addition to frequent, careful, tooth brushing and flossing.

Repair of misaligned teeth or replacement of dental and orthodontic appliances may be recommended. Any other related illnesses or conditions should be treated.

For more information on a great oral care program read our article 'Whiter Teeth and a Great Smile',  check out 'How To Brush Your Teeth'