Dental plaque is a colorless, sticky film that forms on your teeth and gums. This biofilm is composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Plaque begins to form on tooth surfaces just minutes after brushing, and if left undisturbed, it can accumulate both above and below the gumline.
Plaque’s Natural Color and Variations
Plaque in its initial stages is colorless or a pale, creamy yellow, making it difficult to see against the natural color of teeth. Plaque can become discolored for several reasons. Staining from external sources is a common cause. Chromogenic bacteria, which produce pigments, can adhere to plaque and stain it black, brown, or orange.
Certain foods and drinks also contain pigmented compounds that can bind to plaque and enamel. Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruit juices are frequent culprits, causing brown or yellowish stains.
Disclosing agents help visualize plaque. These agents, available as chewable tablets or solutions, contain dyes that stain plaque a bright, noticeable color like red, pink, or blue. Some tablets use different dyes to distinguish between new and old plaque. This allows individuals to identify areas they might be missing during brushing and flossing.
If plaque is not removed, it can absorb minerals from saliva and harden into calculus, also known as tartar. Calculus is a rough, crusty substance that can appear yellow, brown, or even black. It cannot be removed by regular brushing alone, requiring professional dental cleaning.
The Significance of Plaque’s Presence
Even when plaque is naturally colorless, its presence on teeth is a concern for oral health. The bacteria within plaque feed on sugars and carbohydrates from food and drinks, producing acids as a byproduct. These acids can erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth, weakening it and eventually forming cavities, also known as dental caries. This process can begin within minutes after eating if plaque is present.
Beyond cavities, plaque accumulation can also lead to gum disease. The bacteria and their toxins in plaque irritate the gum tissue, causing it to become inflamed, red, and swollen. This initial stage is known as gingivitis, and it may cause gums to bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
If gingivitis is not addressed, plaque can continue to build up, harden into tartar, and lead to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. In periodontitis, the inflammation spreads deeper, affecting the bone and tissues that support the teeth, which can result in gum recession, bone loss, and ultimately, tooth loosening or loss. Consistent removal of plaque is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, regardless of its visible color.