Gum Disease

What is Tartar?  What is Plaque? What is Oral Biofilm? How can I Prevent Tartar Buildup?

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What is Biofilm? 

Biofilms 

Biofilms are communities of micro-organisms have evolved a unique survival strategy through the formation of complex matrix-like structures. The slimy and slippery layer that forms on rocks in streams is a biofilm as well. The bacterial micro-colonies within the biofilm attach to a solid surface, such as your teeth. 

What is Dental Plaque? 

Plaque is Dental biofilm in the oral cavity containing about 1000 different bacterial species. It is formed when the bacteria in the mouth mixes with remnants of food particles to form a sticky film. Left untreated, plaque gets attached to surfaces of your teeth and dental prostheses, including dentures and implants which can inflame your gums leading to gingivitis, bad breath, gum disease, receding gums, dental caries and implant failures.

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What is Tartar?

Tartar sometimes called calculus is formed when untreated plaque has hardened on your teeth and under your gums into hard calcified deposits. Bacterial biofilm will continue to grow and hide under these calcium domes. It is one of their survival mechanisms and thus, they go undetected from your immune system as well as from antibiotics. Not only can tartar threaten the health of your teeth and gums, it also creates a cosmetic problem, thus changing the appearance of your smile.

How can I prevent Plaque and Tartar formation?

Although oral biofilm and plaque formation is inevitable and cannot be completely eliminated, the severity can be reduced through effective oral hygiene measures that effectively disrupt and remove the plaque biofilm. These include:

1. Brushing twice a day with a tartar control toothpaste.

2. Daily Flossing

3. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash

4. Regular Professional Cleanings

5. Diet: Rosemary, oregano, thyme, clove, garlic, turmeric, and cinnamon help in reduction of biofilm.

6. Avoiding sugary diets, smoking and alcohol consumption must be considered. The bacteria in your mouth thrives on sugary and starchy foods.

7. Xyletol Gum and Xyletol Sweeteners have anti biofilm properties. They help suppress adhesion of these biofilm bacteria to your teeth.

8. Mix ¼ TSP of Baking Soda, ¼ TSP of 3% H2O2 in half cup of water. After you complete brushing your teeth with your toothbrush, use your tooth brush to brush your teeth for 1 min with this mix. This will reduce the acidity in the mouth, increase the PH to make it alkaline, thus will help to inhibit biofilm formation and reduce tartar build up.


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