Not removing dental plaque increases your risk of gum (periodontal) disease.

　　Don’t leave dental plaque behind—gum disease can creep up on you Many people are so busy they rush through brushing and rarely floss. If dental plaque isn’t cleared every day, it quickly builds up and hardens into tartar (calculus) that a toothbrush can’t remove. Over time, gums become inflamed and breath worsens. In severe cases it progresses to gum disease (periodontitis), leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss. Why is plaque such a problem? Plaque is a sticky bacterial biofilm that clings to tooth surfaces and along the gumline. Bacteria feed on sugars in your mouth and release acids and toxins that make gums red, swollen, and prone to bleeding (gingivitis). If this is left untreated, inflammation can reach the supporting bone, causing bone loss—this is periodontitis. The longer you wait, the harder and more time‑consuming treatment becomes. Common signs of gum disease - Gums bleed easily when brushing or eating - Gums are swollen or tender; color shifts from healthy pink to dark red - Persistent bad breath (halitosis) that quickly returns after rinsing - Larger gaps between teeth, receding gums, teeth look longer or feel sensitive - Weak bite, teeth feel slightly loose, or pus around the gums How to remove plaque effectively - Brush for at least two minutes morning and night with fluoride toothpaste. Use the Bass brushing technique: place the brush at about a 45° angle to the gumline, make short gentle vibrations, then sweep from gum to tooth tip. - Floss every night to clean between teeth; use interdental brushes if spaces are larger. - Gently clean your tongue and the inside of your cheeks to reduce oral bacteria. - Electric toothbrushes and antiseptic mouthwash can help, but they do not replace thorough brushing and daily flossing. Diet and lifestyle matter In Hong Kong, many of us love milk tea, soft drinks, and desserts. Sugary and acidic drinks fuel bacteria and can soften enamel. Try to: - Eat at regular mealtimes and avoid sipping sugary drinks throughout the day - Drink plenty of water and rinse with water after meals - Cut down on smoking and alcohol; smoking slows gum healing and worsens breath - Manage late nights and stress—dry mouth makes self‑cleaning harder; keep a balanced routine - Take extra care if you have diabetes or are pregnant—your gum disease risk is higher How often should you get a dental cleaning? Even with great home care, tartar still builds up along the gumline and in hard‑to‑reach areas. Regular professional teeth cleanings with a dentist or dental hygienist are recommended to remove tartar and check your gum health. When needed, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) targets plaque and tartar below the gumline to reduce inflammation. Practical tips for office workers - Keep a small‑headed toothbrush and floss picks at your desk; do a quick two‑minute clean after lunch - Keep water on your desk instead of sugary drinks - Avoid late‑night snacks within two hours of bedtime; after brushing, drink water only Common myths—busted - “If my gums bleed, I should stop brushing.” False. Clean more gently but thoroughly along the gumline and floss daily—this helps reduce inflammation and bleeding. - “Dental cleanings wear down teeth.” False. Professional scaling targets tartar and surface stains and does not damage healthy enamel or tooth structure. - “Chewing gum cures bad breath.” It only masks odor temporarily. The root cause is usually plaque, gum inflammation, or other oral issues. When should you see a dentist? If gum bleeding lasts more than two weeks, bad breath persists, gums are receding, teeth feel loose, biting is painful, or you notice pus, book a check‑up as soon as possible. The earlier periodontitis is treated, the easier it is to control; delays make treatment longer and more complex. Consistent daily habits plus regular professional follow‑up are the keys to healthy gums. Starting today, give your mouth two extra minutes—clear away plaque, keep your breath fresh, and protect a confident smile.