Plaque Faques

1. Did you know that Gum Disease and Plaque are related?
2. Do you know what Periodontitis Disease is?
3. Do you know how to get rid of Plaque or stop Gum Disease?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms continuously on your teeth. It contains a bacterium that causes the damage. This bacterium produces toxins and enzymes that irritate gums and lead to gum disease. Gum disease or Gingivitis in its early stages (unlike a cavity) is painless, but there are warning signs. 

Warning Signs
If you have noticed any of the following warning signs for Gum Disease, please consult your dentist immediately:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are gently pressed
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any changes in the fit of partial dentures

Brushing

• Brush thoroughly twice a day
• Use a soft toothbrush
• Hold the brush at a 45° angle where the gum line meets the teeth
• Gently vibrate the brush back and forth in place for several seconds
• Move on to the next group of teeth and repeat
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath

 

Flossing

The American Dental Association (ADA) and Bel Air Dental Care recommends daily flossing, which cleans where brushing can't reach: between teeth and under the gum line.

• Take about 18" of floss and wrap it around the middle finger of each hand
• Make sure the floss is pulled tightly between your fingers
• Using your thumbs and forefingers, gently slide the floss between two teeth
• Curve it around each tooth, move the floss up and down against each tooth and between the tooth and gum as high or as low as it will comfortably go under the gum line
• Move on to the next tooth, advancing to a clean section of the floss
• Repeat the steps above for each tooth