Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids. These foods may include carbohydrates (starches and sugars), such as candy and cookies, and starchy foods such as bread, crackers, and cereal.
Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, occurs when plaque remains on your teeth for an extended period of time, allowing the bacteria to ‘eat away’ at the surfaces of your teeth and gums. Ironically, the areas surrounding restored portions of teeth (where fillings, or amalgams have been placed) are particularly vulnerable to decay and are a breeding ground for bacteria.
Plaque can lead to gum irritation, soreness, and redness. Sometimes, your gums may begin to bleed as a result of plaque. This gradual degeneration can often cause gums to pull away from teeth. This condition is called receding gums.
Long-term plaque can lead to serious problems. Sometimes, the bacteria can form pockets of disease around tooth structures, eventually destroying the bone beneath the tooth.
Location
Plaque
MEET YOUR DOCTOR
Vijaya Canakala, DMD
Dr. Canakala graduated from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine in 2006. She worked in Private practice in Massachusetts for over nine years before she moved to Connecticut.
Dr. Canakala’s practice philosophy is to help restore and maintain good oral health for all her patients by providing excellent dental care in a gentle and compassionate way. She strongly believes in continuing education and training, and she will continue to make it a top priority in her practice. She gained extensive knowledge in not only general dentistry but expanded her skillset in aesthetic procedures and implant restorations in her practice.
Dr. Canakala is a member of American Dental Association (ADA), Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA) and Middlesex County Dental Society.
In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Mukesh (who is also a Dentist), their family and friends. She loves to spend time outdoors with her two beautiful sons Aarush and Ishan.
OFFICE HOURS
Monday:
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Tuesday:
10:00 am-7:00 pm
Wednesday:
Closed
Thursday:
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Friday:
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday:
by appointment only
Sunday:
Closed