Plaque

Plaque is a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria that forms on the teeth all the time. It builds up particularly along the gum line and in the grooves of the back teeth, and between the teeth where a brush does not easily reach. Everyone gets plaque; the key is removing it regularly before it can cause problems.

Plaque is largely colourless, which can make it hard to see, and it begins to form again soon after the teeth are cleaned. That is why daily cleaning is a continuous task rather than a one-off.

The bacteria in plaque feed on sugars from food and drink and produce acids as a by-product. Those acids can dissolve minerals from the enamel and start tooth decay. Plaque along the gum line can also irritate the gums and lead to gum disease. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into a rough deposit called tartar, or calculus, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Plaque is controlled by removing it thoroughly and regularly: brushing twice a day, cleaning between the teeth daily, and having professional cleanings as advised. A dentist or hygienist can show you techniques that reach the areas plaque tends to collect, and can remove tartar that brushing cannot.

Being mindful of how often sugary food and drink are consumed also helps, since that is what the bacteria in plaque feed on. Together, these everyday habits are the foundation of preventing decay and gum disease.

Plaque builds up most in the places a toothbrush reaches least well. Knowing where those are makes it easier to clean thoroughly and to understand why dentists emphasise cleaning between the teeth as well as brushing.

These areas are also where decay and gum inflammation tend to begin, which is why paying them particular attention pays off. A dentist or hygienist can point out the spots that need extra care in your mouth.

Because plaque is largely colourless, it can be hard to see how much is present and where it is being missed. At a check-up, a dentist or hygienist can assess this and, where helpful, use a harmless dye called a disclosing agent that stains plaque so it shows up, which makes it easier to see which areas need more attention.

Professional cleaning also removes plaque and the hardened tartar that brushing cannot, and gives the dental team a chance to advise on technique. Regular visits therefore work alongside daily cleaning rather than replacing it.