The importance of dental plaque removal

Brushing and flossing your teeth are everyday habits that parents try to create at an early age. Dentists say it’s one of the most critical factors in your overall dental health. Many people don’t understand this essential habit and skip or rush through it at the end of a long day. In Carrollton, Texas, Dr. Adnan Saleem of Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics reminds his patients that brushing is an important activity to remove dental plaque.

What is dental plaque? 

Most people have plaque on their teeth at some point. If you run your tongue across the teeth, you may even be able to feel it. Plaque is a fine film on the teeth that contains bacteria, which produces acids that can harm the enamel of the teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease. Plaque can also develop under the gums on tooth roots and damage the bones supporting your teeth. If plaque isn’t brushed away, it can harden and turn into tartar that is challenging to remove. 

Is dental plaque common? 

While dental plaque is very common, some people experience more plaque than others. Those individuals who have the following habits or medical conditions may develop additional plaque: 

• Eating many starchy or sugary foods or drinks
• Have a dry mouth, caused by medication or a medical condition
• Have had radiation to the head or neck
• Smoke or use chewing tobacco

Preventing plaque

Taking care of your teeth and gums will help reduce the amount of plaque in your mouth. Consider the following tips:

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s important not to rush your brushing session. Most dentists recommend brushing for a full two minutes. It’s best to brush after each meal, but adults should be sure to brush at least two times each day. 

• Floss to remove food particles that get stuck between the teeth. While most people floss after they brush, dentists recommend doing it first to remove more plaque. 

• Chew sugarless gum

• Choose healthy foods like plain yogurt, cheese, raw vegetables, and fruits instead of those high in sugar or starch like cookies, bread, and soda. 

• Drink water to keep the mouth moist and to help remove food particles

• See your dentist regularly for a professional dental cleaning and checkup. Dentists and their teams use professional tools to address even the hardest-to-reach areas of the mouth. Further, dental checkups are a good opportunity for your dentist to examine your mouth and spot any potential problems before they develop into larger issues that are harder to treat. 

Additionally, your dentist can offer several other treatments to prevent plaque from building up, including dental sealants, medication or fluoride treatment, or prescription toothpaste or mouthwash. 

Keeping your mouth healthy and plaque-free is an essential factor in keeping your mouth healthy and your smile sparkling. Call your dentist for an appointment if you experience chronic bad breath, swelling of the face or gums, bleeding gums, toothache, or tooth sensitivity. In most cases, the sooner you address a problem, the faster and easier the treatment will be. 

For more information about dental health care, call the Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics office at (972) 388-3320.

Share this Article