Caring for the teeth

1. Plaque is a sticky colourless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and along the gum line, containing bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Tartar is hardened plaque that attaches to the enamel on your teeth. Regularly brushing teeth twice a day for at least two minutes helps to remove the plaque, but any build-up of plaque and tartar may need to be removed by a dentist/dental hygienist.³

2. The build-up of plaque can irritate the gums, resulting in bleeding, swelling and soreness.⁴ Antiseptic mouthwashes (e.g. those containing chlorhexidine) may help to control this and help prevent gum disease.⁵ The early stage of gum disease (gingivitis) is when the gums are red, swollen and bleed easily. The next stage is periodontitis, when the gums pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets. If untreated, this can result in tooth loss.

4. The bacteria on the teeth digest carbohydrates that we eat and also produce acid, affecting the hard enamel of the teeth, softening and dissolving it. When the enamel is damaged, bacteria can enter the dentine, causing further tooth decay. Saliva helps to neutralise the acid, allowing remineralisation (when the enamel hardens again). However, eating sugary foods regularly affects the remineralisation process, increasing the risk of tooth decay.⁶