What Is Plaque and Why Should You Care?

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and along the gumline. You can’t always see it, but you can often feel it, especially if your teeth feel fuzzy or rough when you run your tongue over them.

When you eat or drink, the bacteria in plaque feed on sugars and produce acids. These acids can damage your enamel, irritate your gums, and eventually lead to cavities and gum disease if plaque is not removed regularly.

Why Plaque Matters

If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with brushing or flossing alone. Over time, both plaque and tartar increase your risk of:

• Tooth decay

• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)

• Bad breath

• Tooth sensitivity

• Tooth loss

Plaque buildup doesn’t just affect your smile. Research shows that gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health conditions. That’s why good oral hygiene is important for your overall health, not just your teeth.

How Do You Know If You Have Plaque?

Plaque is colorless or pale yellow and usually hard to see. Common signs of plaque buildup include:

• A sticky feeling on your teeth

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss

• Persistent bad breath

• Yellowing near the gumline

• Tartar forming on the teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

How to Prevent Plaque Buildup

The good news is that plaque is preventable with a strong daily routine and regular dental visits. Here are a few tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste

• Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash

• Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals

• Stay hydrated and chew sugar-free gum after eating

• Visit Maddali Dental every six months for professional cleanings and exams

How Maddali Dental Can Help

At Maddali Dental, we help patients in Union and Parsippany NJ keep plaque under control through professional cleanings, personalized oral hygiene tips, and early detection of issues before they become serious.

If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, or you’re noticing signs of plaque buildup, we’re here to help.

📍 Union: 908-851-9292📍 Parsippany: 973-334-2255