Plaque is the yellowish/greyish adherent layer on and between the teeth that forms if the teeth are not cleaned, or not properly cleaned. Plaque is particularly likely to form around the gum margin and between the teeth, i.e. places that are difficult to reach during toothbrushing. Up to 90% of plaque consists of bacteria.

When supplied with sugar, the bacteria constantly produce acid, resulting in tooth damage (caries).

The metabolic products of these plaque bacteria can also lead to inflammation of the gums, which usually manifests as swelling and bleeding of the gums.

The most important objective of daily oral hygiene is the removal of this plaque. The plaque should be removed using fluoride-containing preparations, so that any incipient damage can immediately start to be repaired and new damage prevented.

2. I suffer from bleeding gums. What can I do?

Bleeding gums is a sign of inflammatory processes in the gums. The inflammation is caused by bacteria, which will need to be removed as completely as possible before the inflammation can heal. It is therefore important to know where plaque tends to accumulate in your mouth and how you can remove it effectively. However, as with learning to drive, it is not really possible to learn proper oral hygiene from a book. Your dentist will be happy to provide corresponding advice.

3. What is dental calculus?

Dental calculus consists of calcified (= petrified, mineralized) tooth deposits that form wherever bacterial plaque persists long enough to incorporate mineral salts. Calculus tends to form at those sites where the salivary glands lead into the oral cavity, i.e. on the inside of the lower incisors and on the outside of the upper, anterior molars.

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