Name	Description	Treatment
Plaque:	Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth. It is always there, but you can rarely see it. The bacteria that causes tooth decay lives under the plaque. When you eat sugary foods, the bacteria uses the sugar as a food and releases an acid which damages your teeth.	Brushing and flossing should help to stop and prevent plaque.
Tartar:	If plaque goes on untreated (if you don't brush and floss well enough), tartar can form. Tartar, also known as calculus, is similar to plaque but much harder.	Brushing and flossing alone usually can not stop tartar. With a check-up at your dentist, however, the tartar can be removed quickly and easily.
Abscess:	When a lot of tartar forms, gums can get infected, producing an abscess. When the bacteria under the plaque can get enough sugar over a long period of time then the acid they produce can damage the tooth by producing a cavity (decay). If this decay gets large enough it can injure the nerve of the tooth that resides in the center of the tooth. If the nerve dies from the injury this can also produce an abscess. It can be painful. Have you ever had a cavity?	A dentist's check up is needed quickly to repair the tooth.
gingivitis:	gingivitis is a disease of the gums. It is caused by plaque and tartar forming between teeth and along the gums. The gums can swell or even bleed.	A dentist can identify gingivitis during your checkup, but if it does form, he or she may treat the problem or prescribe a special mouth wash or toothpaste.
Malocclusion:	Some people are born with malocclusion. This is a situation in which the teeth do not line up correctly.	An orthodontist can help correct malocclusion with wires, or braces. Braces are worn to slowly correct tooth position.