Chances are on visits to our office you’ve encountered the term “plaque.” But do you really understand what it is and how it is harmful to your teeth? Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge about the causes of plaque, its risks, and how to treat it:

1. Plaque is caused by:
1. Sugary foods such as soda
2. Carb-heavy foods such as cake
3. A build-up of bacteria in the mouth
4. All of the above


2. Plaque will make your teeth feel “fuzzy.”
1. True
2. False
   


3. Can plaque lead to cavities or gum disease?
1. Yes, plaque may be a contributor to these problems
2. No, the major impact of plaque is getting your teeth dirty


4. What are some good ways to get rid of plaque?
1. Brushing and flossing
2. Using a toothpick to remove excessive plaque
3. Chewing gum

Answers:

1. The answer is D – All of the above. Plaque build-up begins when food, especially food rich in sugar or carbohydrates, is left on the teeth. Bacteria in the mouth love this food, and as they eat and thrive on it, they produce acids that wear down the enamel on your teeth.


2. The answer is A – True. Plaque is made up of live bacteria on the teeth that take the form of a thin, white film (what clinicians term biofilm), which may become thicker at the gum line. People generally describe plaque as feeling like fuzz on their teeth, so a very simple test is to run your tongue along the outside and inside of your teeth; if you do detect any “fuzzy” feeling that is a sign you may be due to come in for a cleaning visit with our hygienist.


3. The answer is A – Plaque may lead to cavities and/or gum disease. If plaque build-up is left uncontrolled for a long period of time it can lead to serious tooth decay – what we generally refer to as cavities. The acids released by bacteria may also irritate the gum line and cause gum disease, an inflammation of the gums.


4. The answer is A and C – Brushing and flossing, and also chewing certain types of gum. The best way to keep your teeth and your whole mouth healthy is simple: floss your teeth at least once a day, and brush twice (once when you wake and once just before bed) with a fluoride toothpaste. If you’re a gum-chewer, note that sugarless gum containing Xylitol has been shown to fight plaque. Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener that acts as an antibacterial agent, helping to break down plaque and prevent decay. Using a toothpick or any other object to scrape or pick off plaque is ineffective and also runs the risk of damaging your teeth or gums.

Remember to contact us for any questions or concerns, and to set up an appointment for a check-up and a thorough teeth-cleaning.

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