Effects of Plaque on Gums

Plaque is a thin bacterial film which brings the enamel of teeth to decay and causes cavities. if plaque is not removed by the daily regimen of brushing and flossing and using a therapeutic mouth rinse, then it can quickly harden and become tartar, or calculus, and will root itself under the gum line.

Healthy gums are important to all of us since it says a lot about one's oral care. For this reason, your Dentist in Indianapolis IN shares the effects of plaque can have on your gums.

Tartar Buildup

Since tartar is a sticky substance, it allows bacterial plaque to adhere to tooth enamel with greater ease which provides an even larger breeding ground for the plaque. Tartar is quite visible with a yellowish or brown deposit seen above the gum line between the lower front teeth and gum line. Due to the porous nature of tartar, it also causes teeth to stain more easily from the drinking of sodas, tea, coffee or from cigarette smoking. Once you see tartar, simple brushing will not remove it. It is time for you to visit your Dentist in Indianapolis IN to get proper dental cleaning.

Ways to reduce it

Tartar build-up can be greatly reduced by eating a diet low in starches and sugar and high in dairy products that provide the mineral calcium to teeth that prevent tooth decay as well as the vitamin D that builds strong bone. In addition, do not neglect the twice-annual routine dental check-up and professional dental cleaning by your Dentist in Indianapolis IN. It helps to use American Dental Association (ADA) approved fluoride toothpaste. You can also use the toothpaste with the ingredient, Triclosan. It is marketed as tartar control toothpaste that fights the bacteria in plaque. Power operated toothbrushes work better at removing the plaque that can lead to tartar than manual toothbrushes.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis or periodontal disease (aka gum disease) is the official name for plaque and tartar buildup. The symptoms of gingivitis are inflamed gums, receding gums, tender gums that change from light to dark red color and at times bleeding gums. Gingivitis is easily reversible if caught early. At worse, pockets of bacteria can form between the teeth and gums that bring the infection resulting in the periodontal disease that damages the tissue of teeth resulting in tooth loss.

On the bright side, you can avoid and/or prevent gum disease and tartar build-up by keeping a good oral hygiene along with visiting your Dentist in Indianapolis IN for a regular check-up. So contact us today at (317) 358-8885 to schedule an appointment.