What is Oral Hygiene and Plaque?
• Oral hygiene refers to keeping the mouth, and particularly the teeth, clean and free of dental plaque. • “Daily oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing can prevent both caries and gingivitis.” • The above should be combined with a daily fluoride mouthwash. • You are also advised to see your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning. What are dental plaque, calculus or tartar? • Dental plaque is a thin film of bacteria and other organic material that sticks to teeth. • Plaque cannot be rinsed off, but it can be removed by brushing and flossing. • If plaque is not removed, it can cause periodontal disease. • The longer that plaque is allowed to remain on teeth, the greater are the risks of gum disease. • If plaque is not removed, it can harden to form calculus. • Calculus causes gum problems. It should be professionally removed as regular brushing will not do so. • Calculus occurs more often in older children and adults. • Diets rich in soft, sticky, carbohydrate food
