Does Anything Dissolve Dental Plaque?
Dental Plaque can buildup anytime that you eat. As you chew and breakdown food, microscopic pieces of food become stuck on your teeth and gums. Bacteria attach and feed en masse throughout your mouth, targeting this areas of food particles. Foods especially rich in sugar and carbohydrates are primary plaque-builders; because of their calorie dense composition. As bacteria and organic decomposition form a slurry, acids in your mouth slowly mold and harden the plaque, creating a sheen or shell around your teeth. This forms Tartar, a hard non permeable layer which destroys enamel and the underlying tooth structure, as well as attacking the gums. Typically, the only sure way to remove tartar and hardened plaque is to see your dentist for a clinical cleaning, but we will investigate some other options that are known to bust the plaque up.
Brushing- Brushing is a tried and true method to remove plaque. When targeted early in the plaque-forming process, toothbrushes can remove plaque. By working in firm but gentle circular motions, you can brush the plaque up and away from the gums, off the surface of the tooth. Use different angles to work behind, between, and atop the different teeth. Be cautious of over-brushing, which is a common factor in gum recession and enamel damage. You cannot scrub or scrape plaque off, but you can slowly whittle away at the sheen that has formed. Many patients have reported success using electric toothbrushes, which often have a built-in circular motion.
Specialized Toothpaste- Most toothpastes are fluoridated, which has been proven to target and attack plaque buildup. Fluoride has been shown to counteract the acids that help to form and harden plaque, and helps to build protection for the enamel from these acids. Some recent speculations have targeted fluoride, but it is a safe, naturally occurring chemical that has been used throughout modern dentistry for its antacid and protective capabilities. Speak with your dentist about the best toothpaste options and brands.
Flossing- Flossing is not just the most popular dance on TikTok, it is also the most tried-and-true method of plaque and food expression from between the teeth. Flossing is the only way to drag and target plaque buildup from the contours of the teeth down to the gumline. Our brushes, no matter how soft, simply cannot interact with this area like floss. Use a clean strip of floss and be sure to change as it becomes frayed, discolored, or soiled. There are many different shapes and types of floss, as well as water picks. Ask your dentist for their top recommendations.
At home hygiene is the best way to combat and defend against plaque buildup, however, it is often not enough. At some point, most of us will experience plaque, tartar, and some mild gum disease. The best thing to do is act early, and have an action plan in place, namely seeing your dentist. Make regular appointments every 6 months for thorough cleanings and follow up with question in between appointments.