This page explains how you and your dentist or hygienist can work together to help solve the problem of periodontal disease.

Plaque is the name given to a film of bacteria which is constantly forming on all the teeth. Plaque causes dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal disease (gum disease).

Everyone’s saliva contains millions of bacteria. These bacteria stick to the surfaces of our teeth and quickly multiply to form layers of plaque.

What does plaque look like?
Plaque is a soft, colourless substance which is difficult to see until the coating is quite thick. it collects on the surface of teeth mainly next to the gums and between the teeth.

Careful tooth cleaning every day will remove the plaque before it builds up in sufficient amounts to damage your teeth or gums. Plaque can be removed from the fronts and backs of your teeth with a toothbrush but special devices, such as dental floss, are necessary to clean between your teeth where toothbrush bristles don’t reach.