Plaque is caused by bacteria in your mouth. We all have bacteria, some is beneficial and some is not. Bacteria attach to the tooth structures and consume the foods that we eat. These bacteria will produce a soft acid waste product known as plaque.
Plaque has a milky white color and looks similar to cottage cheese. Plaque destroys the gum attachment, and the result is periodontal pockets. As the bacteria continues to multiply and produce more and more plaque is produced which causes the gums to become inflamed. Your bodies’ response will be to send white blood cells to the area to fight the infection.
The white blood cells release enzymes whose job it is to destroy bacterial cell, unfortunately the enzymes are not selective in the cells they destroy.
The enzymes will also end up destroying the bone that supports the teeth. When plaque stays on the teeth for even a few days, it starts to pick up the minerals in the saliva, which calcifies and becomes known as tartar, or calculus (meaning little stones).
The calculus is very rough and becomes firmly attached to the teeth which become bacteria traps.
The bacteria will hide in the nooks and crannies of the calculus causing more plaque.
Your mouth is a busy place with lots going on. Bacteria, germs and small colonies of living organisms are constantly on the move on your teeth, gums, lips and tongue. It’s normal to have bacteria in your mouth however, some of the bacteria can be and is helpful, however there are some types of bacteria that can be harmful.
Certain types of bacteria attach to the enamel which surrounds the teeth. If the bacteria is not removed they multiply and grow in numbers growing a colony of bacteria. Different types of bacteria attach themselves to the colony which is already growing on the tooth enamel. Proteins that are present in your saliva also mix with the bacteria colony and forms a whitish film on the tooth. The whitish film is called plaque and it’s the plaque that causes cavities.
A cavity is a very small hole that forms on the tooth. It is caused when sugars in foods you eat mix with bacteria in the mouth which produces a mild acid which eats away the outer layer of a tooth, the outer layer is called enamel.
Cavities are more common during childhood but adults can get cavities, too. Adults tend to get two kinds of cavities:
The Doctors will check for loose or broken fillings on every visit and may suggest replacing some. The Doctors will also always check for signs of decay, such as brown or black spots and check to make sure your gums are healthy.
Both Doctors may want to take an X-ray to take a closer look at the problem area. Leaving cavities untreated causes pain and the tooth may have to be removed and replaced with an artificial tooth.
We will try to arrange your office visits to fit your schedule.
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Landmark Dental Group offers you a wide variety of dental solutions which utilize the latest dental technology. We can create a natural tooth-colored porcelain crown or veneer in one visit. Find out more about our dentistry services and feel free to contact us any time with any of your questions!
1605 Hunt Dr., Normal, IL 61761
Phone: (309) 454-7344
Mon/Tue: 8-5 (closed 1-2)
Wed: 7-3 (closed 11-12)
Closed Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday