Dental Plaque and Tips to Get Rid of It

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a bacterial coating that accumulates on the teeth on a regular basis. After we eat or drink, the bacteria in plaque release acids. These acids can cause gingivitis, a type of gum disease, and cavities leading to tooth decay, by destroying tooth enamel. Plaque can also form behind the gums on dental roots, causing the bones that anchor teeth to deteriorate. Plaque left untreated can develop into tartar, which is difficult to remove.

Plaque can be removed with proper oral hygiene. Here are a few tips on what you can do to remove plaque at home before it causes any damage.

How to Avoid Plaque Build-Up

1.Brush Twice, Daily

It’s important that you thoroughly brush your teeth, at least 2 times a day, in the morning before breakfast, and at night after dinner and before going to sleep. Brushing your teeth isn’t enough, you must also gently brush and clean your tongue as food residue can stay on the tongue as well.

2.Floss Daily

A lot of people don’t take flossing seriously. Flossing before you brush will remove the plaque, and any other food residue stuck between your teeth. You can floss before brushing in the morning, or you can do it at night, just make sure you’re doing it at least once every day.

3.Maintain a Healthy Diet

Often, the importance of a healthy diet is neglected as an aspect of oral hygiene and care. Not only does a healthy diet help your teeth stay healthy, but it can also help you get rid, of or slow down the build-up of plaque. Plaque forms when the bacteria react with sugar, so cutting down on sugar and sweet foods is the way to go.

4.Baking Soda

Studies have shown that baking soda is very effective in breaking down and removing plaque and it also prevents it from coming back. It’s naturally abrasive, meaning it’s good for scrubbing. You can find many kinds of toothpaste that have baking soda in them.

5.Oil Pulling

This is also a very easy method to combat plaque build-up in the mouth. All you need to do is get coconut oil, heat it so that it gets a little warm, and then take it in your mouth, rinse your mouth with it for five to ten minutes, and spit it out. It removes plaque and strengthens your teeth and gums as well.

Dental Check-Ups

It’s good that you take care of your teeth at home, maintain proper oral hygiene and do everything to not let plaque and other residue build-up, but this doesn’t mean you don’t get regular dental check-ups. If you’re in Frisco, Waterfront Family Dentistry is offering the best dentistry services. Root canals, teeth removals, like wisdom tooth removal or tooth extraction, and cosmetic dentistry like teeth whitening and cleaning are just some of the services we specialize in. Contact us now to know more, or book an appointment.