What is Plaque? How Does it Affect your General Health?
Plaque is a bacterial build-up that forms on the teeth. It may be invisible unless it is highly concentrated. It originates from the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria is a part of the digestive process that starts in your mouth. These processes form acids and toxins that can create periodontal disease and decay. Decay is an overgrowth of normal bacteria and more pathogenic bacteria. Brushing and flossing are essential daily oral hygiene steps to keep the bacteria and their by-products from building up on your teeth, which causes damage to your teeth and gums.
There is a marked link between cardiovascular health, diabetes, and oral health. As dental health providers, we will continually evaluate your periodontal health and its relation to overall health. Our goal is not to scare you but to educate you on the connection between your oral health and general health.
Steps the Hygienist takes to Clean your Teeth
Our dental hygienists use specialized tools and techniques to thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup you can’t reach with your toothbrush. Here’s what you can expect during your teeth cleaning appointment:
We’ll examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues.
We use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, both above and below the gumline.
Next, we polish your teeth to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth and shiny.
We floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and food particles.
We may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from decay.
Lastly, the hygienist will provide personalized tips and instructions on improving your oral hygiene routine at home.
Care for your oral hygiene for a better quality of general health
Your dental health is a partnership between our team and you. Good oral hygiene means keeping your mouth clean and free of bacteria and other problems. Good oral hygiene requires daily brushing and flossing. It requires seeing your dentist and hygienist twice yearly for dental cleanings. As good as you may be at brushing, a toothbrush will not remove all the plaque build-up between your teeth. Good oral hygiene is necessary to advance your overall health.
Keeping your mouth free of bacteria and plaque is especially important if you have underlying health conditions. For example, if you have diabetes, increased blood glucose levels mean more sugar in your saliva. Plaque can accumulate more quickly on your teeth, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. Periodontal disease can also raise your blood sugar, making your diabetic condition even more challenging to control. Regular visits to your hygienist can help improve your blood sugar control.
We will do everything possible during your appointment so you know how to manage your oral hygiene between visits. Contact our St. Joseph dental team or call us today for an appointment to learn how to take care of your oral hygiene and keep you moving toward health. (816) 233-0142.
