Dental plaque is one of the causes of damage to teeth and gums. To prevent this, there are ways to remove plaque on the teeth that are effective and easy to do. Besides being good for healthy teeth and gums, you will be more confident when you smile with plaque-free teeth.
Dental plaque looks like a thin, slippery layer of yellowish white color and usually forms between the teeth or along the boundary between the teeth and the gums. Dental plaque is formed from food residue that is left behind and accumulates in the gaps of the teeth.
If left unchecked, dental plaque can harden and trigger the formation of tartar which can cause damage to tooth tissue and gums. Therefore, it is important to know how to remove plaque on the teeth to prevent damage that can occur.
Recognize Diseases Caused by Dental Plaque
Apart from tartar, the following are some of the health problems that can be caused by dental plaque:
Tooth decay or decay
Bacteria from food residue left in the gaps in the teeth can secrete acids. These substances can cause decay or cavities in the teeth.
Cavities or decayed teeth can be filled if detected or extracted early. If left untreated, the damage can spread to the pulp or root layer in the center of the tooth and cause toothache and abscesses.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums that makes the gums red, swollen, and painful. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a serious infection that can cause tooth decay around the jaw. Over time, the infection can cause gaps between the teeth and gums to form and cause the teeth to fall out easily.
How to Remove Plaque on Teeth
In addition to causing disease, dental plaque also makes teeth look yellow, so the smile becomes unsightly. To prevent and remove plaque on your teeth, there are several ways you can do:
1. Brushing teeth regularly
The most effective way to remove plaque on the teeth is to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night. Brushing your teeth regularly can remove food debris, prevent plaque formation, and destroy plaque that has begun to form.
2. Using toothpaste containing fluoride
Toothpaste containing fluoride can make the surface of the teeth harder, thus providing more protection to the teeth from the formation of plaque and the risk of cavities.
3. Change your toothbrush regularly
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles start to look damaged and are no longer effective at cleaning your teeth. In addition, choose a soft-bristled toothbrush, especially for those of you who have sensitive teeth.
4. Use dental floss
To clean between your teeth, use dental floss at least once a day before going to bed at night. This is important to do to remove food residue that is left and cannot be reached with a toothbrush.
5. Gargle with mouthwash
Mouthwash contains an antiseptic to kill bacteria between the teeth and tongue. Choose a mouthwash that contains cetylpyridinium chloride , fluoride , or peroxide to prevent plaque and cavities.
You also need to limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, ice cream, chocolate, or soft drinks. Don't forget to brush your teeth immediately after eating sweet foods so that bacteria that cause tooth decay and gums don't develop.
In addition to the ways to remove plaque on the teeth above, you can also remove plaque with treatment scaling. One thing you also need to remember is to have regular checkups with the dentist every 6 months so that dental health can always be maintained.