Between dental professionals and television commercials, most people have heard of dental plaque before, but do they really know what it is? Dental plaque is a bacteria-laden biofilm that can do serious damage to your teeth, your gums, and your overall oral health. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent these things from happening. 

What is Dental Plaque? 

Dental plaque is a film made entirely out of bacteria that develops on the surfaces of your teeth, especially around the gum line. Plaque is colorless, viscous and will give your teeth a weird feeling when you touch them with your fingers or tongue. 

How Does Plaque Get on My Teeth? 

Anytime you drink or eat something that has carbohydrates in it, bits of the starches or sugars will naturally get left behind and build dental plaque on your teeth. Some bacteria are attracted to these leftover food particles and will attach themselves to the ones located on your gums and teeth. If proper oral care is not practiced, this bacteria will multiply and eventually turn into tartar which will gradually disintegrate both your gums and your teeth. 

How to Prevent Plaque Build-Up

Just about every food we consume leaves behind little particles and everyone’s mouth requires certain good bacterias in order to stay healthy. When it comes to preventing dental plaque while not eliminating any good bacteria, there are a few simple things you can do. 

• Brush your teeth at least two times a day for no less than two minutes each time. This will help to ensure that all of your teeth’s surfaces are nice and clean. 
• Floss at least once every day to remove any food particles that are stuck between your teeth.
• Using mouthwash will also help wash out and of the food particles that flossing and brushing did not get. 
• Make regular dental appointments for cleanings and check-ups. This will allow your dentist to discover any potential problems while they are still small enough to be reversed.

At McBride Dental, we want to help you and your family do everything possible to have and preserve healthy teeth and gums. By scheduling regular appointments with your California family dentist and practicing the oral care techniques we teach you, your whole family will easily maintain teeth that are healthy, strong, and effective.

The San Marcos offices of Dr. Michael McBride are staffed with reputable, professional San Diego area dentists that are ready to address any concerns you may have regarding common dental procedures, as well as preventative, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry. 

It is our job to help you and your family establish healthy dental habits to make sure that your teeth will always be there when you need them and your smile will always look great.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with a San Marcos dentist, please give us a call at (760) 471-1003 and speak with a trained member of our dental staff today.