ORAL-HYGIENE

Plaque and how to get rid of it

So, what exactly is plaque? How to remove plaque at home:

So, what exactly is plaque?

Plaque is bacteria buildup on your teeth, above and below the gumline. It can be yellowish to whiteish in color and accumulates over time if you don’t brush and floss regularly or visit your dentist regularly. It can be unsightly, but worst of all it can damage your teeth if you don’t take care to remove it. When plaque hardens on your teeth it is referred to as tartar which is strongly bonded to the tooth’s enamel and can only be removed by dental professionals. That’s why it’s so important to fight plaque early on.

How to remove plaque at home:

You can certainly eliminate plaque buildup at home. Here are some tips:

Remember to brush your teeth at least twice per day, ideally for 2 minutes each time, taking care to brush all surfaces of your teeth, tongue included. Make sure to use a soft brush head and replace that toothbrush every 3-4 months or when you notice the bristles looking a little frayed. We also recommend an electric toothbrush like the Oral-B iO, it can remove up to 100% more plaque than a manual toothbrush.

Floss once a day. It helps loosen those bits of food and plaque in between teeth that will solidify and turn into tartar if left unattended.

Try a toothpaste with Baking Soda. It’s a natural cleanser and its abrasive qualities mean it’s great for removing tough plaque.

Rinse with a plaque fighting mouthwash. Adding a mouthwash to your routine can help prevent plaque bacteria buildup which in turn will prevent tartar formation on teeth as well as offer fresh breath.

Remember – even though the dental professional uses sharp implements to remove tartar at your appointments, never attempt to do this yourself at home. This is because you could damage your enamel or pierce your gums and cause further problems. The best way to remove tartar is to prevent it from occurring in the first place with a consistent oral care routine.

Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-remove-plaque