Overview

Dental plaque is a sticky colourless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth and along the gum line. It is the primary cause of both tooth decay and gum disease. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into calculus (tartar) within 24-72 hours — a hard deposit that cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional cleaning. Calculus is a major contributor to gum disease in Kuwait's adult population.

Symptoms

• Fuzzy, dull, or rough feeling on teeth especially first thing in the morning
• Visible white or yellowish coating on teeth and gum line
• Gums that bleed when brushing — a sign of plaque-induced gingivitis
• Hard white, yellow, or brown deposits visible along the gum line (calculus)
• Bad breath from bacterial activity; staining of teeth

Causes & Risk Factors

• Inadequate brushing and flossing — the primary cause
• Irregular or no professional dental cleaning
• High sugar and carbohydrate diet fuelling plaque bacteria
• Dry mouth: less saliva to rinse bacteria away
• Tobacco use increases calculus formation; misaligned teeth are harder to clean

Complications

• Dental caries directly caused by plaque acid
• Gingivitis progressing to periodontitis
• Tooth loss from advanced gum disease; bad breath; tooth staining

Diagnosis

Plaque is revealed by disclosing tablets or solution. Calculus is identified during clinical examination with a dental probe. X-rays detect subgingival calculus deposits below the gum line.

Treatment

• Scale and polish: professional removal of plaque and calculus above the gum line
• Root surface debridement (deep cleaning): removes calculus below the gum line in periodontitis
• Oral hygiene instruction: improving brushing and interdental cleaning technique
• Disclosing tablets: useful home tool to identify plaque build-up areas

Prevention

• Brush twice daily for 2 minutes using correct technique
• Clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes every day
• Professional dental cleaning every 6 months — brushing alone cannot replace this
• Reduce sugar intake; quit smoking and shisha; drink water after meals

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