Plaque, also known as tartar, is the buildup of bacteria, saliva and food protein in your mouth which then forms into a sticky substance that adheres to your teeth. This stuff coats your teeth wedges itself under your gums and ends up sticking to fillings and other dental work. It carries bacteria that can end up causing tooth decay and cavities. If you get to plaque early, however, you can prevent these problems from arising. Below are some of the ways that you can help control the buildup of plaque in your mouth.
Brush Twice a Day
Your first line of defence is brushing twice a day, for two minutes at a time. Brushing for thirty seconds at a time isn’t going to do much to control plaque and tartar, so the two-minute rule is very important. You need to use a brush with soft-enough bristles that they are not going to damage your gums and gum line, but firm enough that they are able to tackle the plaque.
Invest in an Electric Toothbrush
Many studies have found that an electric toothbrush actually does a better job of tackling plaque and tartar buildup than a manual one. Whatever electric toothbrush you end up going with, make sure that it has been certified by the dental association in your country, so you can be assured it’s going to do the job you need it to do.
Get a Tartar Control Toothpaste with Fluoride
The reason that you need fluoride is that it works to repair enamel damage. You should also look for a toothpaste that contains the ingredient triclosan, which will actively fight against the bacteria that you find in plaque.
Floss
It doesn’t matter how well you are able to use a toothbrush, the only surefire way to make sure you are attacking the plaque buildup between your teeth is to go at it with dental floss. It is very important to make sure you get those hard to reach places, as that is where plaque builds up the most.
Rinse Your Mouth Daily
You should be using an antiseptic mouthwash daily to ensure that you are helping to kill the bacteria in your mouth that ultimately become plaque. Starting at the bacteria that causes plaque is the best way to prevent plaque buildup in the future.
Human beings, unfortunately, do not have the robust teeth that many other animals have. Our mouths require a considerable amount of care and attention in order to keep them healthy. Incorporate the above into your daily plaque fighting routine and your mouth will thank you as time goes on.