Learning how to remove plaque from teeth is essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. In this article, you will learn why it is important to prevent plaque formation, discover the best ways to remove plaque from teeth naturally and other dental practices to keep your teeth healthy.
Dental plaque is the sticky film that accumulates on the teeth. This layer forms when bacteria in the mouth mingle with sugars and starches from the diet, forming a layer that clings to the teeth and gumline. If left unaddressed, dental plaque can be detrimental to one’s oral health, leading to tooth decay1 and gum diseases.2
Understanding plaque and knowing how to prevent plaque on teeth is a vital step towards maintaining overall oral health. Once we know what plaque is and why it's important to prevent it from accumulating, learning how to remove plaque becomes much easier.
When dental plaque accumulates, it can set the stage for tooth decay and gum disease.1,2 Plaque that is not removed daily, can mix with the minerals in saliva and harden on the tooth surface forming tartar. Tartar buildup, or dental calculus, forms a hard shell on the teeth within 24 to 72 hours and can lead to gum disease and infections if not removed professionally.2
If your aim is to enhance your oral hygiene regime at home, there are a few different ways you can do this. We will delve into practical methods of brushing, flossing, and rinsing, which are crucial in combating dental plaque.
If you favor natural solutions when it comes to plaque removal at home, multiple remedies have demonstrated the potential to do so. Be sure to consult your dental professional before trying any of these methods, as some natural solutions may not be suitable for all users.
Tips for removing plaque from teeth naturally.
Keep in mind that while home remedies can be beneficial, they do not replace professional dental care. Always consult with your dental professional before introducing new elements into your oral care routine and be mindful of any allergies that could turn these natural allies into foes.
Knowing how to how to get rid of plaque on teeth is important, but knowing how to prevent plaque buildup is even better. Armed with the right tools and knowledge, you can maintain a positive oral health routine that helps keep plaque at bay.
Be sure to care for your toothbrush and replace your toothbrush head every three to four months to maintain its effectiveness.
Neglecting dental plaque buildup can lead to serious consequences, including:
It is important to take care of your dental health and address plaque buildup to prevent these problems, and one effective way is to prevent plaque buildup through regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene.
Preventing the buildup of plaque requires consistent effort, proper techniques, and occasional professional assistance. Brushing, flossing, using natural remedies – if they’re right for you - and regular dental visits are key practices for a healthy mouth.
Disclaimer
* vs. a manual toothbrush
Sources
1 Loesche WJ. Microbiology of Dental Decay and Periodontal Disease. In: Baron S, editor. Medical Microbiology. 4th edition. Galveston (TX): University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston; 1996. Chapter 99
2 National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Periodontal (Gum) Disease
3 Brayer L, Mor H, Anaise J, Gedalia I. Effect of sodium fluoride rinsing on dental plaque accumulation. Refuat Hapeh Vehashinayim. 1977 Oct;26(4):45-7. English, Hebrew. PMID: 273591.
4 Putt MS, Milleman KR, Ghassemi A, Vorwerk LM, Hooper WJ, Soparkar PM, Winston AE, Proskin HM. Enhancement of plaque removal efficacy by tooth brushing with baking soda dentifrices: results of five clinical studies. J Clin Dent. 2008;19(4):111-9. PMID: 19278079.
5 Asaad N, Laflouf M. Effectiveness of Apple Cider Vinegar and Mechanical Removal on Dental Plaque and Gingival Inflammation of Children With Cerebral Palsy. Cureus. 2022 Jul 15;14(7):e26874. doi: 10.7759/cureus.26874. PMID: 35978745; PMCID: PMC9375849.
6 American Dental Association, Natural Teeth Whitening
7 Atkinson FS, Khan JH, Brand-Miller JC, Eberhard J. The Impact of Carbohydrate Quality on Dental Plaque pH: Does the Glycemic Index of Starchy Foods Matter for Dental Health? Nutrients. 2021 Aug 6;13(8):2711. doi: 10.3390/nu13082711. PMID: 34444871; PMCID: PMC8401118.
8 Walsh T, Worthington HV, Glenny A, Marinho VCC, Jeroncic A. Fluoride toothpastes of different concentrations for preventing dental caries. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2019, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD007868. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007868.pub3
9 Johns Hopkins Medicine, Halitosis (Bad Breath)
10 Mythri S, Arunkumar SM, Hegde S, Rajesh SK, Munaz M, Ashwin D. Etiology and occurrence of gingival recession - An epidemiological study. J Indian Soc Periodontol. 2015 Nov-Dec;19(6):671-5. doi: 10.4103/0972-124X.156881. PMID: 26941519; PMCID: PMC4753713.
Power Flosser 3000
Oral Irrigator
HX3711/20