When a person goes to the dentist there are many things that are commonly said. One of the most common things that might be heard is that there is an accumulation of biofilm. For those who are not familiar with what this is or how to treat it, there are a few things to keep in mind.
What is Biofilm?
Simply put, biofilm is a colony of microorganisms. This is seen in many different applications, but in the world of oral hygiene this is referred to as plaque, a buildup of bacteria on the teeth. This is a yellow film that has an almost glue-like texture. There are many ways that the bacteria in the biofilm can accumulate. The most common is not using proper oral hygiene as the bacteria from the things a person consumes are the most common culprit with this condition.
What is the Outcome?
Taking care of plaque is an important task. Neglecting to do so can lead to gum disease.
The most mild form of this is gingivitis which can cause bleeding gums and more. The most severe form of this is periodontitis which can have a serious negative impact on the oral health and physical health of the person. In fact, it can lead to medical problems such as bacterial endocarditis, ear infections and much more.
What You Can Do
The first thing a person can do when they notice they have an accumulation of plaque is to ensure they are keeping up with their oral hygiene regimen. They should also be making regular trips to the dentist to ensure that the issue is under control. The dentist will be able to tell them the best course of action to take to keep the problem in check as well as handle any damage that has been caused.
Always remember that it is best to treat the issue before it gets worse, so please see your dentist for timely checkups! Also remember that we’re your Houston root canal specialists. We can help keep your teeth in their best shape. Contact us at Gulf Coast Endodontics, today!