![]() The bacteria nearest the tooth surface typically obtain energy by fermenting dietary sugars (especially sucrose). ![]() In addition, our saliva will act to buffer the PH (acidity) of the oral cavity to levels that these bacteria thrive at. Our own saliva no less contains primary nutrients such as amino-acids, proteins and glycoproteins (these again!) which feed the bacteria in the early stages of plaque formation. These bacteria all occur naturally in the oral cavity and are normally harmless.ĭental plaque forms because the warm and moist environment of the mouth and the presence of teeth make for a good environment for its growth and development. Although over 100 different bacterial species can make up the plaque biofilm, the bulk are Streptococcus mutans and other anaerobic species. These initial bacteria begin to spread throughout the mouth, multiplying and maturing, eventually forming micro-colonies otherwise known as the plaque biofilm. This essentially acts as an adhesive that, within hours of forming, bacteria can bind to. Those ‘clean’ tooth surfaces are immediately bathed in saliva and colonised by what we refer to as salivary pellicles, the composition of which is predominantly glycoproteins. Let’s assume you’ve just brushed and flossed your teeth and gums meticulously. It is actually a ‘biofilm’ that attaches to the tooth surface, dental restorations and prosthetic appliances ( dentures, crowns and bridges). ![]() So what’s all the fuss about this Dental Plaque thing? Time for a bit of science…ĭental plaque starts out as a sticky, colourless deposit. So an otherwise innocent ten-second kiss can potentially spread up to 80 million bacteria between mouths!Įating foods high in sugar like cakes, sweets, soft drinks and even fruit can lead to an increase in certain bacteria such as streptococcus mutans, which start to overpopulate the mouth and shift the normal harmonious, healthy environment into one which can predispose to dental decay and gum disease. These bacteria normally live in harmony with each other (symbiosis) limiting the build-up of certain bacteria that can be harmful to us and in particular our teeth and gums.įUN FACT: Many of these bacteria can cause tooth decay and are spreadable just like an infectious disease. In our mouths alone, it is documented there are in excess of 8 billion bacteria and over 300 different species. ![]() In fact, what you are seeing is a dental plaque, the sworn enemy of your teeth and gums, brought on by bacterial buildup. Have you ever had that fuzzy feeling on the surface of your teeth? Or looked at your floss after you’ve used it and wondered what that white, sticky blob on it is? On the first inspection, that blob may look like a small piece of bread but as you look closer you may realise that it is something else. ![]()
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