If you’ve often wondered how to prevent plaque build-up, you’re not alone. With so much information out there, sometimes it can be challenging to sort the best data from the advice that doesn’t work. Luckily, here’s some sound advice about preventing plaque from accumulating that works when followed diligently.
Plaque vs. Tartar
Plaque is a moist and sticky substance formed from bacteria in our mouth. It develops on our teeth every time we consume beverages and food, but we can control how much stays on our teeth. If plaque isn’t removed soon after we eat or drink, it hardens and turns into tartar or calculus, which means hardened plaque. At that point, it becomes difficult to remove with just toothpaste and brushing.
How to Prevent Plaque Build-Up with Toothpaste
Previous studies showed promising results on how to prevent plaque build-up. They found that dentifrices (collectively called tooth washes, toothpaste, and tooth powders) that contain baking soda removed more plaque then dentifrices without it. The higher concentration of baking soda in the product, the more powerful it was at removing plaque. Baking soda is a naturally occurring substance chemically known as sodium bicarbonate. The mineral, trona, is mined out of the ground and there’s plenty of it.
Instead of baking soda dentifrices, you can try tartar control teeth cleaning products. Another study found that they were more efficient at reducing tartar than fluoride dentifrices.
Floss after Brushing Your Teeth
Be proactive and remove plaque by flossing shortly after you brush your teeth. When you do, you’ll minimize tooth decay at the gum line and in between teeth due to plaque build-up.
Use a Mouth Rinse After Brushing or Flossing
Add a layer of protection by using a mouth rinse. There are many different brands available at pharmacies and grocery stores. Choose a mouth rinse that contains baking soda or fluoride. A word of caution: Mouth rinses are harmful if swallowed; therefore, they’re not recommended for children age 6 and under.
Remove Tough Plaque Buildup Removal Teeth Cleaning
The best way to ensure the total removal of plaque is to have periodic visits with a dental professional. Tartar may have formed in areas that you missed when you brushed and flossed. Plaque is removable by brushing and flossing; however, after plaque hardens, it can’t be removed by those methods. Only a dental professional who can use the right tools, training, and experience can safely rid teeth of tartar.
Routine Checkups Help Keep Your Smile Beautiful All Year Round
By visiting Dr. Marcus Black, you’ll truly discover how to prevent plaque build-up for your specific situation. The residents in the Rogers, Arkansas area trust him with their dental treatments year after year.
General dentistry services include, but are not limited to:
- Teeth Cleaning
- Dental X rays
- Digital Imaging
- Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) assessments
We also offer cosmetic dentistry services such as teeth whitening. gum reconditioning, and veneers. If you require dental crowns, our restorative dentistry services are perfect for that.
Dr. Black and our team consists of caring dental professionals who are serious about how to prevent plaque build-up for our patients. We put them at ease because we realize that kindness is soothing and contagious. Set up your appointment now by calling 479.464.0900 or use our contact form. Uncover the smile you’ve dreamt about today.
