PLAQUE: The researchers conclusively opine that controlling plaque is the first important step in the control of tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is neither food nor a food residue. But at the same time many of the foods cause bacteria, which produce acids. These are foods such as candy, cookies, and starches, such as bread, crackers, and cereal, also cause acids to form. These acid attacks, can cause your teeth to decay. Plaque is a clear, sticky deposit of bacteria that adheres to the surface of teeth and gum tissue. Plaque also produces elements that irritate the gums, which can make them red, tender or cause bleeding. After time, the gums can pull away from the teeth causing pockets to form and fill with additional bacteria and pus.

In the event proper treatment of the gums is not followed, the bone around the teeth can be destroyed. This can cause the teeth to become loose or have to be removed, leading to expensive alternative of dental implants. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of bad breath and tooth loss for adults. Plaque begins forming on the teeth in as little as 4 hours after brushing. What has been discovered in the course of researching the destructive process of gingivitis or periodontitis is that gum problems are not caused solely by these colonies of bacteria but by a series of specific phenomena that must be dealt with in a way that is something other than what has always been done.

CALCULUS: In the absence of regular and good oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, the plaque hardens into calculus (also called tartar). It may not be possible for you to remove this calculus by ordinary means. Calculus is plaque that has mineralized, forming a tough, crusty deposit that can only be removed by your dentist or hygienist. Thorough removal of these deposits is necessary to prevent the progression of periodontal disease. It has been observed that due to differences in the saliva some people form heavy calculus deposits rapidly while others form little or no mineralized deposits. The use of tartar control toothpastes, regular dental visits, and dental care diets helps provide reasonable protection.