What Is Dental Plaque and Why Does It Matter for Your Teeth?
The main inhabitants of this biofilm are oral bacteria, which live and compete with each other in this environment. Biofilm formation is a multi-step process of microbial adhesion, co-adhesion and maturation of the microbial community. Over the last decade we've learned so much more about how plaque forms, what it's made of and how it affects your long term oral health.
Think of your mouth as an ecosystem. The oral cavity is the environment where biofilm forms, where dental biofilms can grow and mature. Depending on the residents and the environment it can thrive in health or descend into disease.
At its heart, dental plaque is a microbial community that sticks to tooth surfaces. This community includes the resident microflora, the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth and they play a big role in oral health. A 2011 study called it an ecosystem that can contribute to both oral health and disease depending on its makeup and the conditions in your mouth [1].
Bacteria in your mouth produce plaque by metabolizing food particles and food debris left on chewing surfaces and other areas of the teeth. This biofilm isn't static; it changes constantly based on what you eat, your daily hygiene habits and even your body's immune response. For example, a diet high in sugar can feed certain types of bacteria, like mutans streptococci and Streptococcus mutans, which are the key bacteria involved in caries development. These bacteria thrive on sugar and contribute to enamel demineralization.
In low pH environments created by sugar metabolism, acid tolerant species become dominant, increasing the risk of dental disease. Plaque formation is the microbial colonization of the tooth surface, if not regularly disrupted can lead to oral health problems. This transition from a healthy mouth to a diseased one is marked by big changes in these microbial communities.
Environmental microbiology studies how diet, pH and hygiene influence these microbial communities in the oral cavity. As plaque is left undisturbed it matures, grows and diversifies. According to a 2019 review this maturation process often leads to a more pathogenic, or disease causing, environment. This shift is a big factor in the development of both cavities and periodontal (gum) disease [8]. It's not like a single invader and more like a neighborhood that gradually becomes more hostile over time.
The most common and earliest consequence of plaque accumulation is dental caries, otherwise known as tooth decay or cavities. When you consume carbohydrates and sugars bacteria in the plaque metabolize them and produce acids as a byproduct. As a 2016 perspective piece explains this acidic environment is the direct cause of enamel demineralization—the process where the hard, protective outer layer of your tooth dissolves [2]. This process can result in developing carious lesions and if left unchecked established carious lesions. Imagine it like repeated exposure to an acidic substance slowly wearing away the paint on a car.
Interestingly it's not just about having 'bad' bacteria in your mouth. A fascinating 2013 study that sequenced the DNA of plaque microbes found that about half of the bacterial species were common to people both with and without cavities [3]. Oral pathogens, such as Streptococcus mutans, are among the bacteria responsible for initiating dental diseases.
This suggests that the switch from health to disease is less about the mere presence of specific pathogens and more about the overall balance of the microbial community and other environmental factors. When the microbial balance is disrupted the risk of dental diseases increases. When the balance tips in favor of acid producing bacteria the risk of decay skyrockets. You can learn more about maintaining this balance from the American Dental Association (ADA).
So what happens when you manage plaque for many years? The results are amazing. A 30 year longitudinal study followed adults and found that those who practiced regular and effective plaque control had very low rates of tooth loss, cavities and periodontal disease [4]. Good oral hygiene and good oral health is key to preventing dental problems and long term oral wellness.
This study provides high level scientific evidence that simple consistent oral hygiene practices—like brushing and flossing, daily brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, using dental floss, and regular professional cleanings—can reduce your risk of serious dental problems for your entire lifetime. These practices are designed to remove plaque and remove dental plaque which are key goals in oral hygiene routines.
Preventive care prevents plaque buildup and keeps your teeth clean reducing the risk of tartar formation and gum disease. For optimal results you need to schedule regular dental cleanings and visit your dentist regularly and see a dental hygienist or dental professional for thorough care.
In addition to these practices you can chew sugarless gum or sugar free gum to stimulate saliva and prevent plaque buildup. Choose nutritious foods including healthy foods to support your dental health and strong teeth and gums.
It's a testament to the fact that preventive care isn't just a short term fix; it's a long term investment in your dental health.
The link between plaque and gum disease is direct and well established. It all starts with gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. A 2018 study officially defined plaque induced gingivitis as a site specific inflammatory condition offering clear clinical and microbiological markers for diagnosis [6]. This solidifies our understanding that plaque is the primary trigger for the red, swollen and bleeding gums characteristic of gingivitis.
Plaque buildup can cause inflammation of the gum tissue and along the gum line. The body's immune system reacts to the bacterial buildup along the gumline causing inflammation. Gums bleed easily and gums swollen are common signs of early gum disease.This is true even for those in long term dental care. A 2021 analysis of patients with a history of periodontitis found a significant correlation between their plaque index (a measure of how much plaque is present) and their gingival index (a measure of gum inflammation) [5]. More plaque meant more inflammation.
If plaque is not controlled there is a risk of developing periodontal problems, severe gum disease and even tooth infection. This is why controlling plaque is the foundation of both preventing and managing gum disease.
Everyone knows you need to remove plaque but how you brush is just as important as if you brush. It's a great tool but improper technique can cause its own set of problems. A 2014 review found toothbrush abrasion (wearing away of tooth structure) and dental erosion when brushing is too aggressive [7]. Too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush can wear away enamel over time especially if your teeth are already softened by acidic foods or drinks.
Be thorough but gentle. Think of it as cleaning a delicate surface—you want to remove the debris without scratching what's underneath. When you brush pay special attention to the chewing surfaces of your teeth as these areas are prone to plaque accumulation and need to be cleaned carefully to prevent decay. A balanced and mindful approach to brushing is key to preserving your enamel and controlling plaque.
It's also important to clear up a common point of confusion. The term 'plaque' is used in other areas of medicine most notably in cardiovascular disease to describe atherosclerotic plaque—the buildup of fats and cholesterol in arteries. This is completely different from dental plaque.
Two studies, one on the mechanisms of plaque rupture in arteries [9] and another on a medication for vascular disease [10] use the same word but are entirely unrelated to your oral health. Knowing this distinction can help you better understand health information and discussions with your healthcare providers. More on the link between oral and systemic health can be explored through resources like this article from PubMed Central.
Plaque is at the root of most oral diseases. Left to itself it creates an environment for tooth decay and gum inflammation. But the good news is plaque is a modifiable risk factor. You can manage it. Through consistent and proper toothbrushing, daily flossing and regular professional cleanings you can break up this biofilm and maintain a healthy oral environment. Knowing plaque is living and dynamic helps you understand why these simple habits are key to preventing cavities and periodontal disease for life.
[1] Seneviratne, C. J., Zhang, C. F., & Samaranayake, L. P. (2011). Dental plaque biofilm in oral health and disease. The Chinese journal of dental research, 14(2), 87–94. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22319749/
[2] Mathur, V. P., & Dhillon, J. K. (2018). Dental Caries: A Disease Which Needs Attention. Indian journal of pediatrics, 85(3), 202–206. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12098-017-2381-6
[3] Peterson, S. N., Snesrud, E., Liu, J., Ong, A. C., Kilian, M., Schork, N. J., & Bretz, W. (2013). The dental plaque microbiome in health and disease. PloS one, 8(3), e58487. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0058487
[4] Axelsson, P., Nyström, B., & Lindhe, J. (2004). The long-term effect of a plaque control program on tooth mortality, caries and periodontal disease in adults. Results after 30 years of maintenance. Journal of clinical periodontology, 31(9), 749–757. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-051X.2004.00563.x
[5] Reiniger, A. P. P., Maier, J., Wikesjö, U. M. E., Moreira, C. H. C., & Kantorski, K. Z. (2021). Correlation between dental plaque accumulation and gingival health in periodontal maintenance patients using short or extended personal oral hygiene intervals. Journal of clinical periodontology, 48(6), 834–842. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13448
[6] Trombelli, L., Farina, R., Silva, C. O., & Tatakis, D. N. (2018). Plaque-induced gingivitis: Case definition and diagnostic considerations. Journal of clinical periodontology, 45 Suppl 20, S44–S67. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.12939
[7] Wiegand, A., & Schlueter, N. (2014). The role of oral hygiene: does toothbrushing harm?. Monographs in oral science, 25, 215–219. https://doi.org/10.1159/000360379
[8] Valm A. M. (2019). The Structure of Dental Plaque Microbial Communities in the Transition from Health to Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease. Journal of molecular biology, 431(16), 2957–2969. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmb.2019.05.016
[9] Bentzon, J. F., Otsuka, F., Virmani, R., & Falk, E. (2014). Mechanisms of plaque formation and rupture. Circulation research, 114(12), 1852–1866. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.114.302721
[10] Jin, P., Ma, J., Wu, P., Yan, R., Bian, Y., Jia, S., Zheng, Q., & Ma, X. (2025). PCSK9 inhibition mitigates vulnerable plaque formation induced by hyperhomocysteinemia through regulating lipid metabolism and inflammation. Biochemical pharmacology, 239, 117031. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2025.117031
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Time of India
31-07-2025
- Time of India
How oil pulling prevents gum diseases and cavities naturally: Know its benefits, risks, and step-by-step guide
Oil pulling is an ancient oral hygiene practice rooted in Ayurvedic medicine that's making a strong comeback today. This natural method involves swishing edible oil, typically coconut or sesame oil , in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes to help draw out toxins, bacteria, and debris. The process is believed to promote healthier teeth and gums, reduce bad breath, and support overall oral health. Unlike many commercial mouthwashes, oil pulling is chemical-free and gentle on the mouth. With both traditional use and emerging scientific studies backing its benefits, more people are turning to oil pulling as a simple and effective daily routine. Understanding oil pulling and its health benefits Oil pulling is the practice of swishing oil in your mouth, typically sesame or coconut oil, for about 10 to 20 minutes, then spitting it out. This technique has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine. The idea behind oil pulling is that the oil "pulls" out toxins, bacteria, and debris from your mouth, helping to cleanse the oral cavity and support better oral health. Here are the top reasons people are adding this practice to their daily routine: 1. Reduces cavity-causing bacteria Oil pulling helps reduce the presence of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria that contributes to tooth decay. Fewer bacteria mean a lower risk of cavities and tooth damage. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo 2. Improves gum health Studies show that regular oil pulling can reduce gum inflammation and bleeding, supporting healthier gums and lowering the risk of gingivitis. 3. Decreases plaque buildup Swishing oil daily helps reduce plaque accumulation on the teeth. Less plaque means fewer chances for tartar formation and periodontal disease. 4. Fights bad breath Oil pulling removes odour-causing bacteria, helping to eliminate bad breath naturally without using strong chemical mouthwashes. 5. Natural and chemical-free Unlike many commercial oral products, oil pulling uses pure, edible oils. It's free from synthetic additives, alcohol, and harsh chemicals, making it ideal for natural oral care routines. Potential risks and side effects of oil pulling While oil pulling is generally safe, here are a few things to watch out for: Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to coconut oil. If you've never used it before, do a patch test or consult your doctor before trying oil pulling. Jaw soreness: Swishing for 20 minutes may cause jaw fatigue or soreness, especially for beginners. Start with shorter sessions and work your way up. Interactions with oral products: Coconut oil may interact with certain oral products like mouthwash or medicated toothpaste. Be sure to space out your routine and consult your dentist if unsure. How to do oil pulling with coconut oil: Step-by-step Choose high-quality oil: Use organic, cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil to ensure you're using the purest and most effective form. Take a tablespoon: Scoop 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and place it in your mouth. You can start with a smaller amount if you're a beginner. Swish gently for 15–20 minutes: Move the oil around your mouth gently. Don't gargle or swallow it. Try to reach all corners of your mouth. Do not swallow the oil: The oil absorbs toxins and bacteria, so swallowing it can be harmful. Spit it out & rinse: Spit the used oil into a trash can (not the sink—it can clog pipes), and rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water. Brush your teeth normally: Finish your oral hygiene routine by brushing with fluoride toothpaste. Also read | 12 natural remedies to cure mouth ulcers
Los Angeles Times
10-07-2025
- Los Angeles Times
What Is Dental Plaque and Why Does It Matter for Your Teeth?
That sticky feeling on your teeth in the morning? That's some form of dental plaque—a sticky film and plaque biofilm. But it's far more than just a bit of fuzz—it's a city of microbes, a biofilm, that's the root of most dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Dental plaque is a type of dental biofilm, a community of microorganisms attached to tooth surfaces. The main inhabitants of this biofilm are oral bacteria, which live and compete with each other in this environment. Biofilm formation is a multi-step process of microbial adhesion, co-adhesion and maturation of the microbial community. Over the last decade we've learned so much more about how plaque forms, what it's made of and how it affects your long term oral health. Think of your mouth as an ecosystem. The oral cavity is the environment where biofilm forms, where dental biofilms can grow and mature. Depending on the residents and the environment it can thrive in health or descend into disease. At its heart, dental plaque is a microbial community that sticks to tooth surfaces. This community includes the resident microflora, the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth and they play a big role in oral health. A 2011 study called it an ecosystem that can contribute to both oral health and disease depending on its makeup and the conditions in your mouth [1]. Bacteria in your mouth produce plaque by metabolizing food particles and food debris left on chewing surfaces and other areas of the teeth. This biofilm isn't static; it changes constantly based on what you eat, your daily hygiene habits and even your body's immune response. For example, a diet high in sugar can feed certain types of bacteria, like mutans streptococci and Streptococcus mutans, which are the key bacteria involved in caries development. These bacteria thrive on sugar and contribute to enamel demineralization. In low pH environments created by sugar metabolism, acid tolerant species become dominant, increasing the risk of dental disease. Plaque formation is the microbial colonization of the tooth surface, if not regularly disrupted can lead to oral health problems. This transition from a healthy mouth to a diseased one is marked by big changes in these microbial communities. Environmental microbiology studies how diet, pH and hygiene influence these microbial communities in the oral cavity. As plaque is left undisturbed it matures, grows and diversifies. According to a 2019 review this maturation process often leads to a more pathogenic, or disease causing, environment. This shift is a big factor in the development of both cavities and periodontal (gum) disease [8]. It's not like a single invader and more like a neighborhood that gradually becomes more hostile over time. The most common and earliest consequence of plaque accumulation is dental caries, otherwise known as tooth decay or cavities. When you consume carbohydrates and sugars bacteria in the plaque metabolize them and produce acids as a byproduct. As a 2016 perspective piece explains this acidic environment is the direct cause of enamel demineralization—the process where the hard, protective outer layer of your tooth dissolves [2]. This process can result in developing carious lesions and if left unchecked established carious lesions. Imagine it like repeated exposure to an acidic substance slowly wearing away the paint on a car. Interestingly it's not just about having 'bad' bacteria in your mouth. A fascinating 2013 study that sequenced the DNA of plaque microbes found that about half of the bacterial species were common to people both with and without cavities [3]. Oral pathogens, such as Streptococcus mutans, are among the bacteria responsible for initiating dental diseases. This suggests that the switch from health to disease is less about the mere presence of specific pathogens and more about the overall balance of the microbial community and other environmental factors. When the microbial balance is disrupted the risk of dental diseases increases. When the balance tips in favor of acid producing bacteria the risk of decay skyrockets. You can learn more about maintaining this balance from the American Dental Association (ADA). So what happens when you manage plaque for many years? The results are amazing. A 30 year longitudinal study followed adults and found that those who practiced regular and effective plaque control had very low rates of tooth loss, cavities and periodontal disease [4]. Good oral hygiene and good oral health is key to preventing dental problems and long term oral wellness. This study provides high level scientific evidence that simple consistent oral hygiene practices—like brushing and flossing, daily brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, using dental floss, and regular professional cleanings—can reduce your risk of serious dental problems for your entire lifetime. These practices are designed to remove plaque and remove dental plaque which are key goals in oral hygiene routines. Preventive care prevents plaque buildup and keeps your teeth clean reducing the risk of tartar formation and gum disease. For optimal results you need to schedule regular dental cleanings and visit your dentist regularly and see a dental hygienist or dental professional for thorough care. In addition to these practices you can chew sugarless gum or sugar free gum to stimulate saliva and prevent plaque buildup. Choose nutritious foods including healthy foods to support your dental health and strong teeth and gums. It's a testament to the fact that preventive care isn't just a short term fix; it's a long term investment in your dental health. The link between plaque and gum disease is direct and well established. It all starts with gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. A 2018 study officially defined plaque induced gingivitis as a site specific inflammatory condition offering clear clinical and microbiological markers for diagnosis [6]. This solidifies our understanding that plaque is the primary trigger for the red, swollen and bleeding gums characteristic of gingivitis. Plaque buildup can cause inflammation of the gum tissue and along the gum line. The body's immune system reacts to the bacterial buildup along the gumline causing inflammation. Gums bleed easily and gums swollen are common signs of early gum is true even for those in long term dental care. A 2021 analysis of patients with a history of periodontitis found a significant correlation between their plaque index (a measure of how much plaque is present) and their gingival index (a measure of gum inflammation) [5]. More plaque meant more inflammation. If plaque is not controlled there is a risk of developing periodontal problems, severe gum disease and even tooth infection. This is why controlling plaque is the foundation of both preventing and managing gum disease. Everyone knows you need to remove plaque but how you brush is just as important as if you brush. It's a great tool but improper technique can cause its own set of problems. A 2014 review found toothbrush abrasion (wearing away of tooth structure) and dental erosion when brushing is too aggressive [7]. Too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush can wear away enamel over time especially if your teeth are already softened by acidic foods or drinks. Be thorough but gentle. Think of it as cleaning a delicate surface—you want to remove the debris without scratching what's underneath. When you brush pay special attention to the chewing surfaces of your teeth as these areas are prone to plaque accumulation and need to be cleaned carefully to prevent decay. A balanced and mindful approach to brushing is key to preserving your enamel and controlling plaque. It's also important to clear up a common point of confusion. The term 'plaque' is used in other areas of medicine most notably in cardiovascular disease to describe atherosclerotic plaque—the buildup of fats and cholesterol in arteries. This is completely different from dental plaque. Two studies, one on the mechanisms of plaque rupture in arteries [9] and another on a medication for vascular disease [10] use the same word but are entirely unrelated to your oral health. Knowing this distinction can help you better understand health information and discussions with your healthcare providers. More on the link between oral and systemic health can be explored through resources like this article from PubMed Central. Plaque is at the root of most oral diseases. Left to itself it creates an environment for tooth decay and gum inflammation. But the good news is plaque is a modifiable risk factor. You can manage it. Through consistent and proper toothbrushing, daily flossing and regular professional cleanings you can break up this biofilm and maintain a healthy oral environment. Knowing plaque is living and dynamic helps you understand why these simple habits are key to preventing cavities and periodontal disease for life. [1] Seneviratne, C. J., Zhang, C. F., & Samaranayake, L. P. (2011). Dental plaque biofilm in oral health and disease. The Chinese journal of dental research, 14(2), 87–94. [2] Mathur, V. P., & Dhillon, J. K. (2018). Dental Caries: A Disease Which Needs Attention. Indian journal of pediatrics, 85(3), 202–206. [3] Peterson, S. N., Snesrud, E., Liu, J., Ong, A. C., Kilian, M., Schork, N. J., & Bretz, W. (2013). The dental plaque microbiome in health and disease. PloS one, 8(3), e58487. [4] Axelsson, P., Nyström, B., & Lindhe, J. (2004). The long-term effect of a plaque control program on tooth mortality, caries and periodontal disease in adults. Results after 30 years of maintenance. Journal of clinical periodontology, 31(9), 749–757. [5] Reiniger, A. P. P., Maier, J., Wikesjö, U. M. E., Moreira, C. H. C., & Kantorski, K. Z. (2021). Correlation between dental plaque accumulation and gingival health in periodontal maintenance patients using short or extended personal oral hygiene intervals. Journal of clinical periodontology, 48(6), 834–842. [6] Trombelli, L., Farina, R., Silva, C. O., & Tatakis, D. N. (2018). Plaque-induced gingivitis: Case definition and diagnostic considerations. Journal of clinical periodontology, 45 Suppl 20, S44–S67. [7] Wiegand, A., & Schlueter, N. (2014). The role of oral hygiene: does toothbrushing harm?. Monographs in oral science, 25, 215–219. [8] Valm A. M. (2019). The Structure of Dental Plaque Microbial Communities in the Transition from Health to Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease. Journal of molecular biology, 431(16), 2957–2969. [9] Bentzon, J. F., Otsuka, F., Virmani, R., & Falk, E. (2014). Mechanisms of plaque formation and rupture. Circulation research, 114(12), 1852–1866. [10] Jin, P., Ma, J., Wu, P., Yan, R., Bian, Y., Jia, S., Zheng, Q., & Ma, X. (2025). PCSK9 inhibition mitigates vulnerable plaque formation induced by hyperhomocysteinemia through regulating lipid metabolism and inflammation. Biochemical pharmacology, 239, 117031. Advance online publication.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Yahoo
Here's what Ozempic and Wegovy are really doing to your mouth
Ozempic and Wegovy have been hailed as wonder drugs when it comes to weight loss. But as the drug has become more widely used, a number of unintended side-effects have become apparent – with the weight loss drug affecting the appearance of everything from your butt to your feet. 'Ozempic face' is another commonly reported consequence of using these popular weight loss drugs. This is a sunken or hollowed-out appearance that the face can take on in people taking weight loss drugs. It can also increase signs of ageing – including lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. This happens because the action of semaglutide (the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy) isn't localised to act just on the fat in places we don't want it. Instead, it acts on fat across the whole body – including in the face. But it isn't just the appearance of your face that semaglutide affects. These drugs may also affect the mouth and teeth, too. And these side effects could potentially lead to lasting damage. Semaglutide affects the salivary glands in the mouth. It does this by reducing saliva production (hyposalivation), which can in turn lead to dry mouth (xerostomia). This means there isn't enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. It isn't exactly clear why semaglutide has this effect on the salivary glands. But in animal studies of the drug, it appears that the drug makes saliva stickier. This means there's less fluid to moisten the mouth, causing it to dry out. GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs (such as semaglutide) can also reduce water intake by affecting areas in the brain responsible for thirst. Low fluid intake further reduces saliva production and may even cause the saliva to become thick and frothy and the tongue to become sticky. One other commonly reported unwanted effect by semaglutide users is bad breath (halitosis). When there's less saliva flowing through the mouth, this encourages bacteria that contribute to bad breath and the formation of cavities to thrive. These bacterial species include Streptococcus mutans and some strains of Lactobacillus. Another species that has been shown to thrive in conditions where saliva is reduced is Porphyromonas gingivalis. This bacteria is a significant contributor to the production of volatile sulphur compounds, which cause the foul odours characteristic of halitosis. Another factor that might explain why semaglutide causes bad breath is because less saliva being produced means the tongue isn't cleaned. This is the same reason why your 'morning breath' is so bad, because we naturally produce less saliva at night. This allows bacteria to grow and produce odours. Case report images show some people taking semaglutide have a 'furry'-like or coated appearance to their tongue. This indicates a buildup of bacteria that contribute to bad breath. One of the major side effects of Ozempic is vomiting. Semaglutide slows how quickly the stomach empties, delaying digestion, which can lead to bloating, nausea and vomiting. Repeated vomiting can damage the teeth. This is because stomach acid, composed primarily of hydrochloric acid, erodes the enamel of the teeth. Where vomiting occurs over a prolonged period of months and years, the more damage will occur. The back surface of the teeth (palatal surface) closest to the tongue are more likely to see damage – and this damage may not be obvious to the sufferer. Vomiting also reduces the amount of fluid in the body. When combined with reduced saliva production, this puts the teeth at even greater risk of damage. This is because saliva helps neutralise the acid that causes dental damage. Saliva also contributes to the dental pellicle – a thin, protective layer that the saliva forms on the surface of the teeth. It's thickest on the tongue-facing surface of the bottom row of teeth. In people who produce less saliva, the dental pellicle contains fewer mucins – a type of mucus which helps saliva stick to the teeth. If you're taking semaglutide, there are many things you can do to keep your mouth healthy. Drinking water regularly during the day can help keep the oral surfaces from drying out. This helps maintain your natural oral microbiome, which can reduce the risk of an overgrowth of the bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth damage. Drinking plenty of water also enables the body to produce the saliva needed to prevent dry mouth, ideally the recommended daily amount of six to eight glasses. Chewing sugar-free gum is also a sensible option as it helps to encourage saliva production. Swallowing this saliva keeps the valuable fluid within the body. Gums containing eucalyptus may help to prevent halitosis, too. There's some evidence that probiotics may help to alleviate bad breath, at least in the short term. Using probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods (such as yoghurt or kefir) may be a good idea. Practising good basic oral hygiene, tooth brushing, reducing acidic foods and sugary drinks and using a mouthwash all help to protect your teeth as well. Women are twice as likely to have side effects when taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, including gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting. This may be due to the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which can alter the gut's sensitivity. To avoid vomiting, try eating smaller meals since the stomach stays fuller for longer while taking semaglutide. If you are sick, don't immediately brush your teeth as this will spread the stomach's acid over the surface of the teeth and increase the risk of damage. Instead, rinse your mouth out with water or mouthwash to reduce the strength of the acid and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing. It isn't clear how long these side effects last; they'll likely disappear when the medication is stopped, but any damage to the teeth is permanent. Gastrointestinal side effects can last a few weeks but usually resolve on their own unless a higher dose is taken. Adam Taylor is a Professor of Anatomy at Lancaster University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
