The Importance of Removing Plaque From Your Teeth

Your mouth is filled with bacteria that create a film on your teeth. When you give your teeth a proper brushing twice per day, this film is easily managed. However, if left unchecked, it can form plaque, which is an issue that can lead to oral health problems. If your dentist in Westlake has diagnosed you with gum disease, then it’s critical for you to realize the importance of preventing plaque from building up on your teeth.

Gingivitis is a periodontal condition that marks the beginning of gum disease. If you do not remove the plaque from your teeth, it can accumulate along your gum line, and the bacteria that it contains can irritate and infect your gum tissues, which can lead to gingivitis. At this stage, improving your oral hygiene habits is usually enough to reverse the condition. However, if left untreated, the plaque can harden into tartar and lead to a more severe gum infection. In its advanced stages, gum disease can damage the supportive tissues of your mouth and lead to loosened or lost teeth. For these reasons, keeping plaque under control by brushing your teeth twice per day is essential for your oral health.