Plaque may be removed in numerous ways, but other plaque removal techniques can be more effective. However, if you fail to take care of oral health and neglect plaque buildup, you will inevitably face far more serious problems. Your teeth’s enamel will eventually wear away, paving the way for tooth decay. As dental experts, we want to provide you with proven tips on how to eliminate plaque from your teeth and remain healthy.
But what is plaque in the first place?
Plaque is simply that sticky coating that accumulates on your teeth’s surface. This plaque can support the growth of bacteria, ultimately resulting in both gums disease and tooth decay. The bacteria that thrive in plaque produce acid that attacks your teeth’s enamel, causing your teeth to wear away gradually. Over time, you may lose your pearly whites, or you’ll develop gum disease and this can potentially contribute to you being vulnerable to other health problems. Thankfully, you can prevent all these problems associated with plaque buildup by knowing how to remove plaque from your teeth effectively.
So, what causes plaque accumulation?
Generally, plaque accumulation is the natural result of how your mouth is designed as well as how you use it. The plaque will accumulate on your teeth when this bacteria mixes with food, dead cells from your teeth, or any other organic matter. As already explained, these bacteria produce an acid that attacks your teeth’s enamel, and this can potentially result in gum disease as well as cavities.
Research suggests that your genetics may also play a role in how much plaque accumulates on your teeth. For instance, the strength of your immune system will determine how easy it is for plaque to stick to your teeth’s surface. When you have a well-functioning immune system, it will manufacture and release antibodies that will coat the bacteria, preventing the bacteria from accumulating on your teeth. On the other hand, if your immune system is relatively weak, it produces fewer antibodies, allowing the bacteria to bind more easily.
So, what are the consequences of failing to remove plaque from your teeth’s surface?
If you don’t eliminate plaque from your teeth early enough, your teeth’s enamel will inevitably begin to wear out. And if this isn’t prevented on time, it could result in tooth decay or even tooth loss. What’s more, the plaque could get infected, spreading the bacteria throughout your mouth. And if this occurs, it can potentially result in numerous other serious health issues.
The bacteria can find its way into your system, causing other health issues, including endocarditis or sepsis. What’s more, infected plaque is highly likely to develop into periodontitis, which refers to the inflammation of the tissues that offer support to your teeth.
Tips on how to remove plaque from your teeth:
- Brush using an electric toothbrush: Electric toothbrush offers numerous benefits, including their ability to remove plaque effectively. When you use a standard toothbrush to clean your teeth, the bristles usually push the plaque in between your teeth. But electric toothbrushes are relatively more effective at doing this. What’s more, a significant number of electric toothbrushes often come equipped with a timer to ensure you are brushing for the recommended amount of time. If you decide to use a manual toothbrush, make sure you brush your teeth for a minimum of two minutes.
- Use a mouthwash to help overpower plaque: A mouthwash is a highly versatile dental product that not only freshens up your breath, but can equally reduce the amount of plaque that accumulates on your teeth. There are a plethora of mouthwashes on the market, ranging from antibacterial to those that surface-fight the bacteria by absorbing both proteins and fats in your gum line and teeth surface.
- Daily flossing your teeth: You are highly advised to use dental floss by putting it in between the teeth from one end-point of your gum line to the other, before running it at least 4-inches into your mouth. Apply some gentle amount of pressure to ensure you eliminate as much plaque as needed.
If you are looking for a dentist, HPS Advanced Dental Care would love to see you. Dr. Heather is gladly accepting new patients.
We are located at 4741 24 Mile Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48316, and we can be reached at (248) 652-0024. We look forward to meeting you!
