On almost any surface, a thin layer of bacteria known as biofilm can stick. That’s why your gums and teeth feel like they’ve been covered in slime when you wake up in the morning. Biofilm is normal;everyone gets it—even if you brush, floss and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. But if you don’t remove the biofilm on a daily basis, it can build and develop into dental plaque. Dental plaque, which can contribute to gum problems, is bacterial buildup. Someone with a healthy oral care routine, who brushes, flosses, and swishes daily, can control and minimize the size of the biofilm, and potentially make it even healthier. But when you clean and rinse your gums and teeth less frequently, biofilm (typically pale yellow in color) can harden and thicken into tartar and requires professional intervention to remove.