There’s the kind of plaque that you may get if you’re receiving an award and then there’s dental plaque, which is not something to be happy about. Dental plaque is the sticky deposit on your teeth that you’re trying to prevent by brushing and flossing regularly. It’s also what your dental hygienist is removing when you come in for your semi-annual cleanings. Here are five fast facts about dental plaque:

1. Plaque can form all over the teeth.

Even if certain parts of your teeth may be more exposed to food and bacteria, plaque can actually form everywhere on a tooth — that includes above the gums and below the gums.

2. Plaque forms from bacteria.

Plaque forms when bacteria grows on your teeth. This bacteria feeds on sugars, which is why if you eat super-sweet foods and drinks, it can increase your risk of developing plaque.

3. There are ways to fight against plaque.

Some of the easiest ways to fight back against plaque are to brush twice a day, floss once a day, and visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings.

4. Pregnancy can make you more vulnerable to plaque.

There are lots of hormonal changes going on during pregnancy that can affect a woman’s body in different ways. One side effect is that it can make your gums more susceptible to plaque, which is why it’s important to keep an eye out for pregnancy gingivitis.

5. Plaque can turn into tartar.

When plaque is left unnoticed and unbothered on teeth, it actually hardens into a substance called tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove, and your toothbrush won’t do the trick. You’ll have to go to a dentist’s office to get rid of tartar!

Schedule Your Dental Exam at Middletown Commons Family Dental

Regular dental visits will keep your teeth free from dental plaque, and that’s something you CAN be happy about. Need our team’s help to get rid of any plaque from your smile? Call our Louisville team today! We love to see our existing patients as well as welcome new patients. We will help you with your dental health in any way that we can.