Plaque
Online Dental Education Library
Our team of dental specialists and staff strive to improve the overall health of our patients by focusing on preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions associated with your teeth and gums. Please use our dental library to learn more about dental problems and treatments available. If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us.
Root Canal Procedure – Molar |
Root Canal With A Crown |
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Cast Post and Core with Crown |
Crown - Prep of Damaged Tooth |
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Progression of Tooth Decay |
Veneers |
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Whitening with Trays |
Bone Grafting - Socket Preservation |
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Effects of Single Tooth Loss |
Implant Placement into Socket |
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Implant vs. Bridge |
Single Implant - Upper Posterior |
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Sinus Lift - Lateral |
Sinus Lift - Vertical |
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Three Unit Bridge |
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Impacted 3rd Molar - Infected |
Normal TMJ Function |
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Cleaning Braces with Floss |
Crown Lengthening - Overview |
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Horizontal Bone Loss |
Periodontal Disease |
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Pocket Reduction Procedure |
Root Coverage Graft |
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Scaling Calculus |
Vertical Bone Loss |
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Brushing with Electric Tooth Brush |
Brushing Your Teeth |
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Cleaning a Bridge |
Cleaning a Bridge - Implant Supported |
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Dental Sealants (No Drill) |
Flossing Techniques |
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Fluoride Treatment |
Night Guard |
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Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids. These foods may include carbohydrates (starches and sugars), such as candy and cookies, and starchy foods such as bread, crackers, and cereal.
Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, occurs when plaque remains on your teeth for an extended period of time, allowing the bacteria to ‘eat away’ at the surfaces of your teeth and gums. Ironically, the areas surrounding restored portions of teeth (where fillings, or amalgams have been placed) are particularly vulnerable to decay and are a breeding ground for bacteria.
Plaque can lead to gum irritation, soreness, and redness. Sometimes, your gums may begin to bleed as a result of plaque. This gradual degeneration can often cause gums to pull away from teeth. This condition is called receding gums.
Long-term plaque can lead to serious problems. Sometimes, the bacteria can form pockets of disease around tooth structures, eventually destroying the bone beneath the tooth.
