What is Plaque?

What is Plaque?

Dental plaque is a white, sticky, or translucent substance that can be felt on our teeth at any time of the day, even if we have brushed them.

It is a formation that should be removed from the mouth through proper tooth brushing.

How Does Plaque Form?

Dental plaque forms on the natural biofilm layer of the tooth, which originates from saliva, as a result of the interaction between bacteria from food we consume and sticky, sugary, starchy, or carbohydrate-rich foods. As long as this formation remains on the tooth, it reacts with the sugars we consume and becomes the main cause of tooth decay.

Oral hygiene and cleaning are very important. While we cannot completely eliminate sugar from our lives, regular tooth brushing is essential to remove plaque and prevent its formation.

How Should Plaque Be Cleaned?

Under normal conditions, dental plaque can be removed from the mouth through regular tooth brushing, but it is crucial that brushing is done correctly. This is because at the base of our teeth, near the neck, there is a free gingival groove (a small gap between the tooth and gum). This groove is a movable structure.

If brushing is done from the tooth toward the gum instead of from the gum toward the tooth, plaque is pushed directly into this free gingival groove. Therefore, brushing must always be directed from the gum toward the tooth. The toothbrush should never lift the gum away from the tooth. When brushing from gum to tooth using a simple sweeping motion, all plaque in the groove is effectively removed from the oral environment.

In addition to brushing, using mouth rinses, dental floss, and interdental brushes can help prevent plaque accumulation around the teeth.

When Is Plaque Treated in the Clinic?

If individuals allow plaque to accumulate on their teeth over time, neglecting brushing and oral hygiene, microorganisms and food debris gradually harden into a solid structure. In this case, tartar (calculus) begins to form around the gums, leading to serious periodontal problems. In such situations, it is necessary for the person to visit a dentist. The dentist will provide the appropriate treatment to restore the health of the teeth and gums.