Plaque
Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless bacterial film that grows on the hard,
rough surfaces of teeth. These bacteria use the sugar and starch from food particles in the mouth to produce acid. Left to accumulate, this acid
destroys the outer enamel of the tooth, irritates the gums to the point of bleeding, and produces foul breath. Plaque starts forming again on teeth 4
to12 hours after brushing, so brushing a minimum of twice a day is necessary for adequate oral hygiene.
When plaque is not regularly removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens
into a yellow or brown mineral deposit called tartar or calculus. This formation is crusty and provides additional rough surfaces for the growth
of plaque. When tartar forms below the gum line, it can lead to periodontal (gum) disease.
Gingivitis is an early form of periodontal disease, characterized by
inflammation of the gums with painless bleeding during brushing and flossing. This common condition is reversible with proper dental care but
if left untreated, it will progress into a more serious periodontal disease,
periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a gum disease that destroys the structures supporting the
teeth, including bone. Without support, the teeth will loosen and may fall out or have to be removed. To diagnose periodontitis, a dentist looks for
gums that are red, swollen, bleeding, and shrinking away from the teeth, leaving widening spaces between teeth and exposed root surfaces vulnerable
to decay.
Tooth decay, also called dental caries or cavities, is a common dental
problem that results when the acid produced by plaque bacteria destroys the outer surface of a tooth. A dentist will remove the decay and fill the
cavity with an appropriate dental material to restore and protect the tooth; left untreated, the decay will expand, destroying the entire tooth
and causing significant pain.
With proper brushing and flossing, oral hygiene may be maintained and oral
health problems may be avoided. Older adults may no longer assume that they will lose all of their teeth in their lifetime. Regular oral care preserves
speech and eating functions, thus prolonging the quality of life.
Professional Dental
Exams
During the exam, DR. Nyquist checks for signs of tooth decay and oral
cancer, examining your tongue, and the inside of your mouth. The dentist checks your bite and looks for problems, such as
teeth grinding and disorders with the jaw.
Sheri or Leslye, our fine dental hygienists will clean your teeth to remove the
plaque left after you brush and floss. Without regular professional cleaning, this plaque can build up and harm your teeth and gums.
Having regular check-ups is a vital part
of caring for your precious smile.
Call and make your appointment today!!
