Plaque Attack: The Enemy Lurking Between Your Teeth

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. But the most dangerous plaque often hides where your toothbrush can’t easily reach, between your teeth. If left alone, it hardens into tartar, causing gum inflammation, decay, and even tooth loss.

In Downtown Vancouver, where many live fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook daily habits that prevent this silent threat. This blog will explain what plaque between teeth is, why it matters, and how you can protect your smile before serious damage occurs.

What Is Plaque and Why Between the Teeth Matters Most

Plaque is made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. It forms naturally every day. When it collects between your teeth, it becomes harder to remove and easier to ignore.

Because toothbrush bristles can’t reach between teeth well, this area becomes a safe zone for bacteria. The result? Cavities between teeth (called interproximal decay), irritated gums, and hardened tartar (calculus) that can’t be brushed away.

Signs You Have Plaque Between Teeth

Most people don’t notice plaque until it becomes a problem. Watch for:

• Bleeding gums when flossing
• Bad breath, even after brushing
• A fuzzy or sticky feeling between your teeth
• Discoloration near the gum line
• Soreness or sensitivity between specific teeth

If these signs sound familiar, it may be time for a professional dental cleaning.

Why You Can’t Rely on Brushing Alone

Brushing is essential, but it only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% the sides between your teeth need flossing or interdental cleaning to stay healthy.

Floss or interdental brushes are designed to remove plaque between teeth that your toothbrush leaves behind. Without this step, bacteria have a constant place to grow and release acids that erode enamel and irritate gums.

Tips to Keep Plaque Away from Between Your Teeth

You don’t need to spend hours on oral care. Just build these habits into your daily routine:

• Floss once a day (before brushing is best)
• Use fluoride toothpaste to help remineralize enamel
• Rinse with water after acidic or sugary foods
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
• Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings

If you wear braces, bridges, or have tight contacts between teeth, talk to your dentist about the best tools for your situation.

What Happens If You Ignore Plaque?

When plaque sits between your teeth too long, it mineralizes into tartar, which a toothbrush or floss can’t remove. At this point, only a professional dental cleaning can help.

Neglecting this area can lead to:

• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
• Bone loss around teeth
• Cavities between teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Tooth loss in severe cases

Routine care helps avoid these issues and keeps your teeth and your smile strong for life.

Book a Dental Cleaning Before Plaque Turns to Tartar

Plaque between teeth doesn’t go away on its own. The earlier it’s removed, the easier it is to stop gum disease and decay before they start. A professional cleaning at O2 Dental can help you catch plaque buildup early and build a care routine that works for your lifestyle.

Schedule your appointment with O2 Dental in Downtown Vancouver today and keep the enemy between your teeth from doing any real damage.