Glossary
... Gingivitis - A minor disease of the gums caused by plaque...

Medication and Heart Disease
...Saliva is one of your body's natural defenses against plaque because it acts to rinse your mouth of cavity-causing bacteria and other harmful materials...

Brushing
Brushing is the most effective method for removing harmful plaque from your teeth and gums...

Flossing
... Many dentists believe that flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque...

Prevention Tips for Children
... Sealants Sealants fill in the little ridges on the chewing part of your teeth to protect and seal the tooth from food and plaque...

Bad Breath (halitosis)
... Gum disease is caused by plaque - the sticky, often colorless, film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth...

Cavities and Tooth Decay
...  Left inside your mouth from non-brushing and flossing, these materials break down quickly, allowing bacteria to do their dirty work in the form of a harmful, colorless sticky substance called plaque...

Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
...In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque, the sticky but colorless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping...

Crowns
...It is very important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration...

Dentures
...Brush the denture (preferably with a denture brush) daily to remove food deposits and plaque, and keep it from becoming permanently stained...

Crowns and Bridges
...It is very important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration...

Periodontal Exams
... During your periodontal examination, your dentist will check: For any lumps or abnormal areas in the mouth Whether any of your teeth are missing or loose The color, texture, size and shape of your gums Whether you have fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures or implants How much plaque is on your teeth The depth of the space between your tooth and gum Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease that causes inflammation of the gums...