What Is Plaque and How Does It Cause Cavities?

Everyone has heard of plaque, but most people don’t really know what it is or how it could affect their oral health. So let’s talk about plaque, what it is, what it’s made of, if it can hurt your gums, and how to fight it. Then you can make an appointment with your dentist in Central City, KY to help prevent plaque from causing you to lose any teeth.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is the stuff that builds up on your teeth if you don’t brush them. It’s a bacteria that attacks your teeth and causes tooth decay and other oral health problems. You can tell if you have plaque by running your tongue over your teeth. If you feel a film on your teeth, that means you have plaque build-up.

What Is Plaque Made Of?

Plaque is made up of tiny bacterial organisms, saliva, bits of food, and liquids. It starts slowly with the plaque sticking loosely to your teeth. But the longer that plaque stays on your teeth, the stronger it gets.

How Does Plaque Hurt Your Gums?

Your gums surround your teeth to protect them. So when plaque builds up around your teeth, it will irritate your gums. Your gums will get red and puffy and will be a bit sore when you brush. Plaque buildup can also give you bad breath. Those are all signs that your gums are being affected by built-up plaque around your teeth.

How to Fight Plaque?

You can fight plaque by visiting your dentist for routine dental visits in Central City, KY. You can also fight plaque by flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day. Flossing helps remove the plaque from your teeth and gums, and brushing helps brush that loosened plaque away.

Do You Need a Dentist in Central City, KY?

If you need a dentist in Central City, KY, please Contact David S. Morehead Family Dentistry today. We have years of experience, use cutting-edge technology, and go out of our way to provide you with the best gentle dental care possible.