When visiting a dentist for a teeth cleaning, one of the key components of your appointment will be assessing and removing plaque buildup. While most dental patients know that plaque is detrimental to oral health, understanding what this substance is and how it damages your teeth and gums can be a mystery. Here’s what you need to know to protect your smile. 

What Is Plaque?

When you wake up in the morning, you may notice a slippery or fuzzy film over your teeth. This colorless or pale yellow substance is plaque. It’s a sticky biofilm that attaches to your teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden, turning into tartar that builds up along your gumline. 

What Causes Plaque to Form?

Plaque is a result of bacteria that live in your mouth and collect on the surfaces of your teeth. While this process is natural, the introduction of sugary and acidic foods and beverages can increase the development of plaque. Any plaque that isn’t removed can eventually lead to tartar buildup, causing gum disease, tooth decay, and the need for a tooth extraction and restorative dentistry procedures to maintain your smile. 

How Can You Prevent Plaque Buildup?

To prevent plaque, follow an oral hygiene routine that includes brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash twice a day. Also, maintain a healthy diet that’s low in refined sugars, acidic foods, and carbohydrates—like white bread, pastries, and white pasta. Finally, schedule teeth cleaning appointments with your dentist every six months to keep your smile tartar-free and catch oral health issues early. 

When you need a dentist you can trust, contact Dental Clinic of Onalaska in La Crosse County. Led by Dr. Mike Olsen, they have two conveniently located oral care clinics that have been serving residents throughout Wisconsin since 1993. To schedule a teeth cleaning, call (608) 783-3341 for their main office in Onalaska or (608) 534-6195 to book an appointment at their location in Trempealeau. For more information about the practice, visit their website.