How to Identify and Get Rid of Plaque on Teeth

Plaque is something that everyone has on their teeth. It is important to try and remove the plaque on your teeth as plaque buildup can lead to cavities, tooth loss, and gingivitis. Make sure to keep up with visits to the dentist so they can remove any plaque and help protect your teeth. 

What is plaque on teeth?

Plaque is a sticky film that bacteria sticks to. It’s that sticky, slippery, or fuzzy coating you feel on your teeth when you first wake up in the morning. The bacteria that stick produce acid, which harms your teeth and will cause tooth decay. 

What does plaque look like on teeth? 

Plaque is pretty hard to see with the naked eye since it’s often the same color as your teeth. That’s why it is important to keep up with your dentist appointments since dentists have special equipment to detect and remove plaque. Your best bet for detecting plaque at home is by feeling your teeth with your tongue for any “fuzzy” areas and making sure to brush and floss properly. 

How to remove plaque on teeth 

The best way to remove plaque is by brushing and flossing regularly. An electric toothbrush may be recommended to help remove plaque. Studies also show that toothpaste with baking soda was deemed helpful for removing plaque. 

Preventing plaque buildup on teeth 

Like most problems that can happen in your mouth, the best way to prevent plaque is by practicing good oral hygiene. 

• Floss – flossing every day with dental floss or water floss (Waterpik) is very helpful. Dentists say to floss before you brush your teeth to remove more plaque.
• Brush twice daily – make sure to brush your teeth 2 times a day for at least 2 minutes. Use toothpaste with fluoride for the best results. 
• See your dentist – getting your teeth cleaned twice a year will keep your teeth in great shape. Your dentist has tools to clear out hard-to-reach plaque that you can’t get at home. 
• Reduce sugary foods – cut back on sugary foods and beverages. 
• Use mouthwash – using an antiseptic mouthwash when you brush will be a great boost for preventing plaque
• Chew sugarless gum – chewing gum after eating is a great option for cleaning your teeth when you can’t brush them after a meal.

Preventing and removing plaque is of great importance to your overall oral hygiene. Having inconsistent oral hygiene practices could lead to more cavities or even gum disease. It’s important to get your teeth cleaned so that the plaque doesn’t build up and form tartar. Simply brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help save you from plaque, causing your teeth to decay, and save you from smelly breath. Practicing those few things should help limit plaque and keep your smile a clean and healthy one.