ABSTRACT
Plaque formation and subsequent chronic inflammation are the major cause of problems connected with teeth and gums. Plaque is the sticky coating formed on the surface of the teeth with saliva and food debris by several bacteria, including the bacterium Streptococcus mutans after consumption of food. If plaque is not removed, it gets converted to tartar by deposition of the calcium salts of the saliva. Further progression by attack of the acids produced by the bacteria in the plaque can lead not only to tooth decay or caries but also to inflammation of the gums or gingiva (gingivitis). Prolonged inflammation leads to loosening of the teeth and the condition known as periodontitis.1 In addition, the importance of maintaining the health of the oral cavity has been brought out by establishing the connection between chronic low grade inflammation and heart disease.2
