Dental plaque: types, symptoms and treatments

Dental plaqueis one of the causes behind dental conditions such as bad breath or the appearance of cavities. That is why we need to treat and remove it so as not to damage our gums. In the following post, we talk about its types, symptoms, causes and which products to use for our oral health. Keep reading!

What is dental plaque?

Dental plaque, also known as plaque, is the formation ofa whitish, sticky film that forms on our teeth due to the presence of bacteria and sugars. This phenomenon is usually the main cause of cavities and other dental conditions, so it is important to treat and remove it.

Types of dental plaque

There are differenttypes of dental plaque, which can be classified depending on their location and the type of bacteria present on the teeth.

According to location

• Supragingival.Present in stagnant areas, above the gums.
• Subgingival.Located in the gingival sulcus, within the gums.
• Proximal.Found between the teeth or in retention areas.
• Pits and fissures.Located on the back teeth.
• Root.Located on the cementum when it is exposed to the environment.

According to the bacteria

• Cariogenic. This plaque produces acid when it metabolises sugars, causing cavities.
• Periodontopathogenic. When it metabolises, acids are not produced, but primary substances instead. This type of plaque causes conditions such as pyorrhoea (periodontitis) and gingivitis.

Dental plaque: most common symptoms and causes

The main symptoms associated with dental plaque include:

• Bad breath.
• Sensitive, inflamed and receding gums.
• Bleedingwhen brushing or flossing.
• Dark red gums.

As for the causes of dental plaque, they can be summed up in two:

• Poor hygiene.Not brushing our teeth regularly or not using dental floss and mouthwashes are among the causes of dental plaque build-up.
• Excess sugar.We need to look after our diet, as overconsumption of foods with high sugar content is the main cause of dental plaque.

How does dental plaque form?

The formation ofdental plaqueinvolves two stages:

• Colonisation.At this initial stage, fissures and grooves form on the surface parts of the teeth.
• Maturation.In the next stage, it becomes established, with an increase in colonies spread across the gums and teeth.

How can you prevent the build-up of dental plaque?

Brushing your teeth is the most common way to combat dental plaque. Although it is not the only way to remove the build-up of dental plaque on the teeth, here are the other steps to follow for proper hygiene:

• Choosean electric toothbrushwith soft-medium bristles and a small head to reach all areas of the mouth more effectively.
• Do not forgetto brush along the gumline.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
• Usedental floss, at least once a day, to remove debris left between the teeth.
• After brushing, finish cleaningby using a mouthwashfor better protection.
• Using a tongue cleaner and an oral irrigatorwill help us achieve optimal hygiene.
• Do not overdo your intake of foods high in sugar, such as sweets or fizzy drinks.
• Visit your dentist regularly, and even more so if you notice any of the symptoms.

Treatments for dental plaque

Below is a selection of products you can buy on our website that will help both combat and remove dental plaque.

Oral-B iO8s Cepillo Eléctrico 

Take your tooth brushing to the next level with the newcepillo eléctrico iO8s de Oral-B.Thanks to its technology and its different brushing modes (such as whitening, tooth sensitivity, daily clean...), you will achieve clean, healthy teeth and gums, as it is capable of removing almost 100% of dental plaque. This electric toothbrush also features a sensor that alerts you to the pressure you are using when brushing your teeth, helping to prevent possible irritation and discomfort and, it also has an App to track your daily oral hygiene routine.

Oral-B Pro Expert Pasta Dental Protección Profesional

This toothpaste helps protect against cavities, tooth sensitivity, surface stains, halitosis and the build-up of dental plaque, among other issues, thanks to its anti-sugar barrier and its formula based on a stannous fluoride complex.Oral-B Pro Expert Pasta Dentalis suitable for over-12s who need complete care and protection for their oral health.

Oral-B Pro Expert Enjuague Bucal Protección Profesional

Also from the Professional Protection range, thisOral-B mouthwashis the perfect complement for reducing and combating dental plaque. In addition, it also strengthens gum health, helps prevent bad breath and offers total protection for up to 24 hours. As for use, it is recommended to use ittwice a day for 1 minute, after brushing. 

Not sure which daily oral care routine to follow? Write to us and our team of pharmacistswill advise you. In addition, on theFarmaciasdirectwebsite you can findmore products to combat dental plaque. Visit us.