This sticky, translucent coating that does not stop forming on and in between the child’s teeth is dental plaque. It is a thin film of harmful bacteria. Plaque often collects along, above, and below the gumline. It will harden over time and transform into tartar or calculus.
After every snack or meal, bacteria in plaque feed. Then, these microorganisms excrete acids to weaken the enamel of the child’s teeth. The longer the food particles stay on the teeth, the more the bacteria feed. This results in more acids bombarding the enamel. As acid attacks repeat every day, the enamel weakens. Then, the formation of cavities starts.
The accumulation of tartar below the gumline can cause gum tissue inflammation. This can lead to pediatric dentistry problems like gingivitis and periodontitis (gum disease). Continuous plaque collection can lead to the structural damage of teeth, gums, and jawbone. It may also result in general health complications.
Untouched plaque hardens. It tends to affect multiple teeth. This connecting line of dental calculus is the calculus bridge. Such an accumulation cannot strip off with regular brushing or flossing. The parent should bring the child to the dentist for pediatric dentistry treatment. At the clinic, the pediatric dentist has a scaler for scraping off the calculus bridge and plaque.
Plaque removal is an important pediatric dentistry procedure. Failure to remove plaque leads to gingivitis or the inflammation of the gums. The first sign of this condition is bleeding when flossing or brushing. This can lead to periodontitis if it does not get treatment.
Plaque accumulation can lead to halitosis or bad breath. Bacteria live in plaque. As these organisms feed, food particles break down. Even if the child brushes or flosses, food particles still stay as part of plaque and calculus. The foul odor comes from the buildup of plaque and tartar.
Tartar is a hardened substance. It stays on the teeth. Tartar blocks the toothbrush from touching the teeth. This results in the weakening of the enamel. The openings created by tartar allow acid and bacteria to seep into the tooth. This results in cavity formation.
Plaque must have a pediatric dentistry treatment. If the child’s teeth do not get regular deep cleanings from the pediatric dentist, the plaque becomes tartar. More bacteria penetrate the child’s teeth. Over time, the tooth deteriorates. It will need pediatric dentistry treatment such as dental extraction.
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Children should have good dental health. Primary and permanent teeth should always go through routine pediatric dentistry checks. Healthy teeth always lead to a healthy body. An appointment with your pediatric dentist will help make your child’s dental and general health optimal.
Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
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