Does Anything Dissolve Dental Plaque?
No one likes having a buildup of plaque on their teeth. Not only can it yellow your teeth, but it also is very dangerous for your oral health if left untreated.
But what exactly is dental plaque? Does anything dissolve dental plaque? What happens if it isn’t treated? And can it be avoided?
Below is more information about dental plaque…
What is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is formed when bacteria build up on teeth and form a film. This happens when sugary and starchy foods are consumed and carbohydrates, acids, and bacteria mix together. Over time, plaque can continue to develop and harden until it becomes tartar. Tartar is a hardened type of plaque that is very difficult to remove without the assistance of an oral healthcare professional.
Some of the signs you can look out for to better determine if you have dental plaque include:
* Swollen gums
* Bleeding gums
* Yellow teeth
* Bad breath
Does Anything Dissolve Dental Plaque?
Yes. There are some natural ways to remove dental plaque at home. These include:
* Baking soda. Baking soda can be used to neutralize the acid that leads to the development of cavities. Consider purchasing toothpaste with baking soda or making a scrub with a teaspoon of baking soda and some water.
* Aloe vera. To remove plaque, mix a teaspoon of aloe vera with baking soda and water. Then use this to clean the plaque from your teeth.
* White vinegar. Add half a teaspoon of salt and two teaspoons of white vinegar to a small glass of water and then rinse out your mouth to help combat plaque buildup.
What Happens If Plaque and Tartar Aren’t Treated?
There are a variety of different oral health conditions that can occur if plaque (and eventually tartar) are allowed to build up. These include:
* Cavities/tooth decay
* Gum disease
* Tooth discoloration
* Gum recession
* Tooth loss
* Sensitivity
How to Avoid Plaque Buildup
To prevent the buildup of plaque, it is essential to practice proper oral care habits such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth twice a day, every day. It is crucial to be diligent and take your time while cleaning your teeth. Allocate at least 30 seconds to each quadrant of your mouth, ensuring that you floss gently but thoroughly.
In addition to these habits, you can also consider fluoride treatment and dental sealants to keep plaque at bay. Fluoride aids in fighting against the bacteria responsible for plaque formation, while sealants help to prevent its development.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also crucial. It is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist every six months for a cleaning and thorough examination of your oral health. During this checkup, your dentist will remove any plaque buildup, identify any oral health issues, and put a plan in place to address them and prevent further decay or infection.
Contact Us Today
If you have plaque buildup on your teeth or you simply haven’t been to the dentist in the last six months, contact us today to set an appointment for a cleaning and checkup!