Removing plaque is important for keeping your teeth healthy. Plaque causes tartar to form on your teeth. This can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
You can remove plaque by taking care of your teeth at home by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. When plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed by a dentist.
This article explains the symptoms and causes of plaque and tartar. It also covers ways to remove plaque and prevent the formation of tartar. What is plaque? Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth. It forms when bacteria in the mouth mix with sugary or starchy foods and drinks. The bacteria in the mouth, acids, and carbohydrates from food or drinks mix to form this colorless substance.
Plaque must be removed regularly, otherwise it can harden into tartar and lead to dental complications. Some types of plaque can cause cavities, while others affect the gums.1
Symptoms of plaque formation
A fuzzy feeling on the teeth Chronic bad breath Sensitive, red, or swollen gums that may bleed when brushing Signs of tartar on the teeth Symptoms of tartar include:34
A rough feeling on the teeth Yellow discoloration of the teeth2 Swollen gum tissue Gums that bleed easily Causes of plaque formation Plaque constantly forms on the teeth. Drinks like milk, juice, and soda, as well as foods like fruit, pasta, and bread, contain carbohydrates. When consumed, bacteria in the mouth release a type of acid that helps break down these carbohydrates. These acids, along with the bacteria and carbohydrates, form plaque.2
If plaque is not removed by daily brushing and interdental cleaning, it begins to accumulate and harden into tartar.4
