Google Rating
4.9
Google Rating
Kettering Dental and Implant Clinic - Logo
facebook instagram

Plaque 101: What You Need To Know About Plaque

30/04/2021

Plaque is a sticky substance that naturally builds up on your teeth. It is usually colourless but can become more yellow if left on the teeth for a period of time. Plaque is a combination of bacteria, sugar and saliva, which if left on the surface of your teeth can have detrimental effects on your oral health.

If plaque if left on your teeth for even just 48 hours, it can turn into tartar which is a thick substance that is very difficult to remove from teeth at home. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist with specialist equipment and can be unsightly.

Signs Of Plaque Build-Up

After brushing, it only takes a few hours for plaque to start building up again. It is natural for plaque to form on your teeth throughout the day, however, it shouldn’t be left to build up. If you notice that your teeth don’t feel as clean and are less smooth, oftentimes described as feeling ‘fuzzy’, you should brush your teeth immediately to prevent tartar formation.

The Dangers Of Plaque Build-Up

As a main component of plaque is sugars from the food you have eaten, the sugar immediately starts to eat away at the enamel on your teeth. This constant attack from sugar causes cavities and tooth decay. The sugars also irritate the gums and make them bleed, eventually causing gum disease if not brushed away and treated. Gum disease can cause catastrophic damage to your gums and cause tooth loss, so it is important that you take care of your teeth and gums every day.

Preventing Plaque Build-Up

The best way to prevent plaque build-up is to maintain a good oral hygiene routine by:

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day
  • Floss at least once a day
  • Swill with an antiseptic mouthwash if your gums feel tender
  • Visit the dentist every six months

For more advice on maintaining your oral hygiene, read our other articles.

Back to Blog

Get in touch

We would love to hear from you

round thumb1

Testimonials

Exceeding Expectations

"I was very impressed with how professional and polite the dentist and practice staff where. I would defiantly recommend this practice to anyone who needs a dentist"

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Booked as an emergency visit today. The online booking system was impressive and the first for me with a Dental Practice, modern times in a forward-thinking Practice, well done."

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"I have been looking for a dentist for a while now and I’m happy I’ve found this place! 😊 friendly, clean and professional practice!"

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Very efficient and friendly team!!! My wife and I had a fantastic experience from the moment we stepped into the clinic until we left. Highly recommended professional service. We have…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"After several years of bad experiences with dentists, I wanted to try somewhere new especially as I was suffering from a bad toothache so I called dental care in Kettering.…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Booked an emergency appointment, when I arrived, the staff were extremely helpful and professional. I was made to feel at ease and during the treatment, every step was explained. I…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Really nice staff. The dentist was fantastic. The best dental practice I've ever been to. If your looking for a dentist look no further."

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Great service, highly recommend!! I had a severe toothache and needed to see someone urgently, I rang and made an emergency appointment and was seen virtually immediately. I was thoroughly…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"I can highly recommend Dr Himesh Panchal and Dr Karnika Panchal Profesional service and by far the best dentist I have ever been too Thank you very much to you…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"I saw Dr Panchal who was very quick to put me at ease and explained everything that he and his colleague were doing. I highly recommend to any nervous patients…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"Dr Karnika Panchal is truly excellent. I had a cosmetic procedure and right from the start, Dr Panchal placed my expectations in the heart of everything she did. She listened…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

"I had a wicked toothache and rang Dental Care for an appointment. Although unable to see me on the same day I had the consultation the following morning. All the…

View all Testimonials
google rating thumb1

Popular Treatments

General Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Straightening

ImplantDentistry

Facial Aesthetics

General Dentistry

We treat you like a member of our family.

Learn More

Cosmetic Dentistry

Our range of cosmetic treatments will give you the smile you deserve.

Learn More

Teeth Straightening

Digital teeth straightening with Invisalign®.

Learn More

Dental Implants

Designed to fit. Designed to last.

Learn More

Facial Aesthetics

Revitalise your appearance with our suite of anti-ageing procedures.

Learn More

Dental brands

View on Instagram
Kettering Dental and Implant Clinic - Logo
facebook instagram
facebook instagram