Research has shown that controlling plaque is important
in the control of decay and gum disease. Plaque is neither food or food
residue. Plaque is a clear, sticky deposit of of bacteria that adheres
to the surface of teeth and gum tissue. It is so adherent that it can
only be removed by mechanical cleansing. Plaque contains a variety of
different types of bacteria. For this reason, certain types of plaque
are associated with dental decay, others with calculus formation, and
others with the inflammatory response of the gums (gingivitis).
Plaque begins forming on the teeth in as little
as 4 hours after brushing. This is why it is so important to brush your
teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. The rate at which plaque
forms and the location in which it develops can vary between individuals
and even between different teeth in the same mouth. One of the prime
areas in which plaque accumulates is at the gingival margin and sulcus
where the tooth meets the gum.
Calculus
Plaque which is not removed
regularly by brushing and flossing can harden into calculus (also called
tartar). Calculus is plaque that has mineralized, forming a tough, crusty
deposit that can only be removed by your dentist or hygienist. These
deposits can form above (supragingival) and below (subgingival) the
gum line. Calculus deposits are a significant contributing factor in
periodontal disease because it is always covered by a layer of nonmineralized
plaque. The calculus keeps the plaque close to the gingival tissue and
makes it much more difficult to remove the plaque bacteria. Thorough
removal of these deposits is necessary to prevent the progression of
periodontal disease.
Some people form heavy calculus deposits rapidly
while others form little or no mineralized deposits. This is due to
differences in the saliva, the types of plaque bacteria, and dietary
factors. One can help reduce the formation of calculus by brushing
with and ADA-accepted tartar control toothpaste and by having
regular professional cleanings every 6 months or more frequently as
recommended by your dentist or hygienist.
The prevention of gum disease and decay requires
a life-long commitment to fighting plaque and calculus formation.
