Plaque is despised by dentists across the world because it is like a housing development for the harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. This nasty yellow film that grows on teeth throughout the day is a buildup of bacteria that grows above and below the gumline, and it makes it easier for these germs to multiply and infect nearby tissues. While plaque can’t be completely eliminated, it can be managed. Here are a few tips for keeping plaque at minimal levels.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is the buildup of bacteria growing on your teeth above and below the gumline. It can be yellowish or whiteish, and it will accumulate over time if you aren’t practicing proper oral hygiene at home and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. If allowed to continue to grow, it can cause tooth decay or gum disease and will eventually harden into tartar, which bonds strongly to your enamel and requires a dental professional for removal. The best way to deal with plaque is to prevent it from developing in the first place.
How Can I Eliminate Plaque at Home?
The good news is that plaque can be easily managed with a proper oral hygiene regimen. This includes:
- Brushing: At least twice a day, once after breakfast and once before bed, you should brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use short, gentle, circular strokes to clean your teeth, tongue, palate, gums, and cheeks for two minutes each session.
- Flossing: Flossing is just as important as brushing because it can eliminate plaque and food debris from places where a toothbrush cannot reach. If traditional floss isn’t your thing, alternative options include floss picks and water flossers.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash will kill more than 99% of the germs that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Another important way to prevent plaque from growing is to minimize your sugar intake. Sugar provides the bacteria in plaque with the food they need to multiply and cause oral infections.
Equally important to excellent oral care at home is having regular dental appointments so your dentist can give your teeth a professional cleaning, advise you on better hygiene, and catch issues in their early stages before they can become big problems. Oral hygiene, smart eating choices, and regular dental appointments can provide your teeth with the protection they need.
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1999 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and pursues continuing education through Spear Education. He proudly serves as a member of the American Dental Association, Nebraska Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His office in Lincoln, NE offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule a cleaning appointment, contact his office online or dial (402) 488-2325.