Does anything Dissolve Dental Plaque?
Everybody gets plaque on their teeth on a regular basis but it is a simple fix with brushing and flossing! When plaque is not removed regularly and is allowed to harden, it turns into tartar which is considerably more difficult to remove. Unlike plaque, tartar can cause long-term damage to teeth and gums.
Does anything dissolve dental plaque?
The best way to remove a dental plaque is to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft bristle toothbrush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. It is even more important to floss at least once a day and to use an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep bacteria at bay in hard-to-reach places, like between teeth and below the gum line.
To keep your teeth as clean as possible between appointments, there are a few steps you can take during your oral care routine. While it is important to note that you should not use a dental scaler on your own to try to remove tartar, many products will help you prevent tartar from forming in the first place.
* Use an electric toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes use oscillating brushes and the counter rotational action is beneficial to reducing the levels of gingival bleeding and inflammation. A manual toothbrush works just as well when used properly. Regardless of what type of toothbrush you use, brushing for at least two minutes is ideal to remove as much product as possible.
* Oral care products containing fluoride: Fluoride is a natural occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening the enamel. Tooth enamel is susceptible to the bacteria in plaque which creates enamel-eating acid, but fluoride can help strengthen and protect enamel.
* Floss daily: Flossing at least once a day helps reduce plaque and bacteria buildup between teeth and under the gum line. It can help reduce mild gum disease or gingivitis significantly better than brushing alone.
* Use antibacterial mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash not only fresh and your broth but can reduce plaque buildup between teeth, loosen stubborn food particles, and reduce the rest the cavities. Using mouthwash right after brushing can remove the fluoride left behind by your toothpaste so it is important to use mouthwash throughout the day, especially after eating, or before you brush.
There are also more homeopathic options that patients can use if they prefer. Brushing with baking soda neutralizes cavity-causing acids and can make your teeth whiter. Additionally, using a mouthwash made of white vinegar, salt, and warm water can reduce bacteria build up in your mouth.
Can I prevent dental plaque?
Dental plaque just naturally builds up on your teeth throughout the day but you can reduce the extent to which it builds up. The starchy and sugary foods and beverages we consume daily might be delicious but unfortunately, the bacteria in dental plaque think so too! Bacteria feed on the sugars and carbohydrates in our food and use that to produce acid that eats away at tooth enamel, causing sensitivity and decay.
Moderate your intake of carbohydrates and sugars and make sure to brush between meals when you are able. If you cannot brush soon after eating, chewing a sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva and prevent plaque buildup.