What is Dental Plaque?

Graphic Illustration Of A Deep Cleaning, Removing Dental Plaque And Tartar Or Calculus.

Dental plaque is a common oral health issue that develops quickly and quietly. Due to this, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of plaque to prevent more serious problems like cavities and gum disease. In this blog, we’ll explore the telltale signs of plaque and how to address them effectively.

What is Dental Plaque?

Dental plaque is a soft, sticky biofilm of bacteria that forms on the teeth. It develops when bacteria in the mouth interact with sugars and starches from food, producing acids that can harm tooth enamel and gums.

Symptoms of Plaque Biofilm

Dental plaque can build anywhere above or below your gum line. It is most often associated with the following symptoms:

    1. Fuzzy or Slimy Teeth

    One of the earliest symptoms of plaque is a fuzzy or slimy feeling on your teeth, especially when you run your tongue over them. This sensation is caused by the accumulation of bacteria and their byproducts on the tooth’s surface.

    2. Bad Breath (Halitosis)

    Plaque biofilm can manifest as persistent bad breath, or halitosis. The bacteria in plaque release foul-smelling gases as they break down food particles, leading to unpleasant breath.

    3. Tooth Sensitivity

    If you experience increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, it may be due to dental plaque. Plaque can cause gum recession and erode tooth enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath.

    4. Red or Swollen Gums

    Plaque can also harm your gums. Redness, swelling, and tenderness in the gum tissue may indicate gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup.

    5. Tartar Buildup

    Prompt removal of plaque bacteria is essential to prevent it from hardening into tartar (also known as calculus). Professional dental cleaning is required to eliminate tartar, as it cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing.

Prevent and Manage Dental Plaque in Long Island City, NY

The best way to manage plaque is through a consistent oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental checkups. At Queensboro Plaza Dental Care, our dentist in Long Island City can help you prevent dental plaque with our comprehensive services and treat plaque buildup you may have. To learn more, get in touch with our office!

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Patient Reviews

Karoline PammerKaroline Pammer
20:52 30 Mar 22
Dr. Nguyen and his staff are extremely competent, friendly and professional. He is very thorough and explains everything very clearly. Finally I feel like I am in good hands when it comes to dental care.
Matt SmithMatt Smith
21:18 05 Feb 22
Great overall experience getting a dental cleaning. Very friendly staff, beautifully designed office, and a comfortable experience watching calming Netflix nature programming while in the chair. Complimentary beverages are in the waiting room and so is a little play area for kids.It felt to me that this was a patient-focused family practice as opposed to a cold, corporate dental mill trying to churn through as many patients as possible.I’ll definitely be coming back here for all my dental needs and I highly recommend.
Sundup SherpaSundup Sherpa
22:07 02 Feb 22
Dr. Nguyen and his staff are very welcoming and they provide an excellent experience every time I visit. I’ve only been here twice for annual checkups but would definitely consider and recommend this place to anyone who appreciates good customer experience and a very thoughtful approach to making sure that you feel at home. I have some procedures set up for later in the month and I must actually be the only person in the world actually looking forward to a dentist appointment.
Jayrockem GottemJayrockem Gottem
21:27 09 Nov 21
Great place wonderful staff they will be my go too dentist 100%
shawaf alishawaf ali
22:08 26 Aug 21
Very confident after leaving the office that my teeth are in greatttt hands. Above and beyond patient care. Very informative visits. A sense that they genuinely care about patient concerns. Added helpful guidelines I took home with me to reach dental hygiene goals before my next visits. Highly recommended you leave your old scary dentist ! 😁😁
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Queensboro Plaza Dental Care

Queensboro Plaza Dental Care