Dental plaque is a sticky, invisible film that sticks to all surfaces of the teeth, including the spaces between the teeth and under the gums. Plaque is made of large groups of germs (bacteria) that grow on teeth. These bacteria react with sugars and starches in foods to produce acids and other substances that can seriously damage the teeth, gums, and surrounding bone. Acids can dissolve tooth enamel by removing minerals from the enamel (a process called demineralization).

Two simple-to-use products that can determine whether you have plaque on your teeth are:

• Disclosing tablets.
• A special light (plaque light) used with a disclosing solution.

These products stain the plaque left on your teeth, which allows you to see clearly where you need to focus on brushing and flossing. Proper brushing and flossing breaks up plaque between your teeth and under your gums.

Self-Exam for Dental Plaque
Results

With the disclosing tablets, areas of plaque and debris will be stained dark red. Under the plaque light, these areas will glow a brilliant orange-yellow. The stained areas, usually along gum lines and between teeth, show places missed while brushing and flossing.

If you see that the dye has stained plaque and debris in your mouth, you will benefit from more careful brushing and flossing. Try brushing again to remove this plaque.