What is Dental plaque

DENTAL PLAQUE Meaning

Plaque is the sticky film containing bacteria that grows on the surface of the teeth. Plaque starts to appear when teeth are not brushed making the teeth feel fuzzy to the tongue.¹

Frequent consumption of foods rich in carbohydrates and sugars such as soft drinks, raisins, cakes, or candy causes them to adhere on to the surface of the teeth, leading to the development of plaque. Bacteria present in the mouth make dental plaque become more acidic, and the acid starts the process that can lead to cavities and ultimately tooth decay. The development of plaque on the tooth under gums may cause breakdown of the supporting bone present underneath.¹

Dental health in Ayurveda, called danta swasthya in Sanskrit is customized as per every person’s prakriti or constitution of each person and climatic changes resulting from solar, lunar and planetary influences (kala-parinama). Vata, pitta, or kapha balance is important for a healthy life. When one or two of these doshas vitiate/go out of control, it affects dental health.²

Dental conditions are called Danta sharkara, since the appearance of plaque is similar to the sugar coating over the teeth with a granular shape. It is a disease characterized by hardened accumulation of mala on tooth surface which destroys the teeth and its surrounding structures and is accompanied by bad odour. Vitiated vata takes the form of thick adherence like the thick sugar syrup causing the manifestation of Danta sharkara.²