Plaque—you’ve probably heard the word quite a few times before. From the commercials on TV for various dental products to the dental hygienist when you go for a cleaning, the topic of plaque is a popular one. But what exactly is plaque and why is it so bad for your teeth?
Plaque is actually what dentists refer to as a “biofilm” that covers your teeth. It is a thin, sticky, and usually colorless accumulation of bacteria and bacterial byproducts on the surface of the teeth. You can often feel plaque with your tongue if you haven’t brushed in a while. You cannot see plaque, however, with the bare eye. Plaque can generally be removed with normal brushing and flossing, but it can harden into tartar when regular hygiene is ignored, putting you at risk for gum disease and tooth decay.
At Hudec Dental in Cleveland, we can help you understand more about plaque and how to remove it during your general dental checkup. Visit our website for more information or call (216) 661-8888 to schedule your next appointment.
