The Truth About Plaque
Plaque is a soft layer of biofilm that builds up across your teeth and gumlines between meals.
It is the result of bacteria inside of your mouth breaking down sugars in the food that you eat (even natural sugars, like those found in milk or juice.)
If plaque isn’t removed thoroughly each day, it begins to etch away the enamel surface. The result is a demineralized area and eventually a cavity.
Thorough brushing for at least two minutes twice each day is essential, as well as flossing to remove plaque between the teeth and under the gumlines.
Tartar is made from calcified plaque deposits that have not been removed within 24 hours. Gradually the tartar accumulates along and below the gum tissues, causing swelling or bleeding when you brush and floss.
Schedule a cleaning at least every six months to remove tartar buildup and get tips on improving your hygiene routine.
Salient Facts About Sealants
Once a tooth is drilled and filled, its strength is compromised. It’ll never be as strong as it was. It’s why we stress prevention. And why it makes sense to have your child’s teeth protected with a sealant.
When your child’s permanent teeth emerge, they’re not as resistant to decay as yours. The most likely location for a cavity is on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These teeth are filled with tiny grooves called “pits and fissures.” They’re helpful for chewing food, but can trap bacteria and food particles.
A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the premolars and molars. It fills in the pits and fissures. This forms a protective shield over each treated tooth.
Sealants work. It’s a preventative treatment that can reduce decay by more than 70 percent and last for up to 10 years. Find out more!
Composite Fillings
When a cavity needs filling, there are two basic choices. There is a mixture of metals called an amalgam. Or, a resin composite, consisting of ceramic or glass, blended in a plastic compound. Each has its pros and cons.
Because resin more closely matches the colour of natural teeth, they tend to be less noticeable. This has made them popular. Plus, due to the flexibility of composites, they generally require less drilling.
Once the decay has been removed and the surface prepared, the composite will be laid down in layers. A special light is used to harden each layer. After final shaping to insure a proper bite, the composite filling is polished.
The downside? Composite fillings don’t tend to last as long as amalgam fillings. Additionally there have been some concerns about composites releasing toxic elements as they age. Until there is greater clarity, we’re keeping an eye on the scientific literature.
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