Plaque build-up under the gums is the first stage of gum disease. Plaque forms when the “bad” bacteria in your mouth feeds on food particles left behind after eating. Plaque build-up can lead to gingivitis, which is the initial phase of gum disease.
Signs of gingivitis include: red, swollen, tender gums that are prone to bleeding, especially when flossing or brushing. Patients may also experience particularly bad breath. Eventually, gum disease can result in tooth loss.
As our dentists recommend to all of our patients, it is important to floss and brush twice a day. This helps remove plaque-forming bacteria. Toothbrushes need to be replaced every 3 to 4 months, and it is important not to brush your teeth too harshly. Use a soft bristle brush, especially if you have tender gums. Brushing brusquely and with too-firm bristles can lead to receding gums (gum loss), and tender gums.
Stop smoking. Smoking regularly makes it significantly harder for the body to fight infection, and increases a person's risk of gum disease. Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate the salivary glands, which help protect against plaque build-up. Additionally, patients with a healthy, balanced diet will have a greater chance of preventing gum disease.
While brushing and flossing regularly will markedly reduce the risk of plaque build-up, some plaque build-up is inevitable for most people. This can be kept in check by adherence to a strong oral hygiene regimen, and twice-yearly visits to your dentist.
Our dentists can also remove tartar, the harder, more advanced stage of plaque. Our dentists are also able to recommend mouthwashes and toothpastes that will best suit your needs. If you have any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is important to consult us as soon as is possible.
