Plaque, that pesky and seemingly insignificant film coating our teeth, can quickly transform into a formidable opponent, wreaking havoc on our oral health. Neglecting to properly and continuously remove plaque can result in the dreaded extraction of a tooth. An outcome no one desires, as it can be painful, costly and leave an unsightly gap in one’s smile.
But don’t fret just yet, there is hope. Teeth don’t go straight from a buildup of plaque to extraction. When plaque accumulates on the teeth, it takes anywhere from 24 to 72 hours to harden into tartar, a stubborn and calcified substance that must be professionally removed.
If left unattended, the bacteria found in tartar can consume tooth enamel, leading to cavities and the formation of pockets along the gum line, ultimately resulting in gum disease. Tooth extraction may become necessary when cavities and gum disease progress to advanced stages.
How to remove plaque from teeth
Thankfully, there are a few simple and effective oral hygiene practices that can aid in removing plaque from teeth while avoiding the need for tooth extraction.
Of course, a visit to your local dentist is also vital in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the different ways to effectively remove plaque from your teeth.
Daily Brushing and Flossing
First and foremost, brush your teeth daily, twice a day, with a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing for at least two minutes each time, in circular motions, covering the front, back and chewing surfaces of each tooth is highly recommended.
Remember, proper brushing techniques could mean the difference between maintaining a healthy smile and a painful tooth extraction.
Next, floss daily, as tartar often forms between teeth where toothbrushes cannot reach. For those who struggle with traditional string floss, fret not. Water flossers and floss picks are also viable alternatives to keep those hard-to-reach areas clean. Choose a convenient time to floss every day, reap the benefits of improved oral health, and say goodbye to bad breath.
Sugar-free Gums
Chewing sugar-free gum containing xylitol, a naturally occurring sweetener found in vegetables and fruits, can also aid in removing plaque and increasing saliva production, two significant benefits for oral health.
Cut down on Sugar and Starch
Reducing sugar and starch intake can also do wonders for one’s oral health. Bacteria in our mouths thrive on sugar and starch, leading to overgrowth and faster plaque and tartar formation. Being mindful of what we eat and opting for sugar-free alternatives can be a game-changer.
Drink Water
Drinking plenty of water between bites and sips, and brushing our teeth afterward, can also help keep our teeth healthy and our smiles shining bright.
Vitamins that Remove Plaque
Indulging in fruits packed with vitamin C isn’t just a tasty treat, but it can also aid in the removal of plaque and improve your overall well-being.
Vitamin C is known to enhance the immune system, empowering your body to fend off any oral infections that may arise. Moreover, you can take your dental hygiene routine up a notch by incorporating crushed strawberries into your brushing ritual, which offers a delectable and efficacious way to eradicate plaque.
Visit your Dentist
Last but not least, scheduling a visit with your dentist every six months for professional dental cleaning is essential. Even with consistent brushing, flossing and healthy eating habits, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of our mouths.
During these appointments, our dental professionals at Molonglo Dental Surgery use top-of-the-line toothpaste, tools and methods to clean all surfaces of the hard and soft tissues of our mouths. This is also an excellent opportunity to check for any other oral health issues that may require attention.
So, dear reader, if it has been more than six months since your last dental cleaning, don’t wait any longer. Schedule an appointment with your dental professional today to gently and thoroughly remove plaque and tartar, ultimately avoiding the need for painful tooth extractions in the future.
To sustain an active oral care maintenance routine, book an appointment with our Friendly Dentist in Molonglo Valley. Contact Molonglo Dental Surgery at 02 6287 1222.