Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids. These foods may include carbohydrates (starches and sugars), such as candy and cookies, and starchy foods such as bread, crackers, and cereal. Plaque and bacteria begin to accumulate within twenty minutes after eating, the time when most bacterial activity occurs.
Tooth decay leads to cavities and occurs when plaque remains on your teeth for an extended period, allowing the bacteria to “eat away” at the surfaces of your teeth and gums. The areas surrounding restored portions of teeth (where dentists place fillings or amalgams) are particularly vulnerable to decay and are a breeding ground for bacteria.
Plaque can lead to gum irritation, soreness, and redness. Sometimes, your gums may begin to bleed because of plaque. This gradual degeneration can often cause gums to pull away from teeth. Long-term, plaque can lead to serious problems. Sometimes, the bacteria can form pockets of disease around tooth structures, eventually destroying the bone beneath the tooth.
