Dental Plaque Removal

Dental plaque is a sticky and invisible film made of bacteria covering the teeth. If it isn't removed, it causes cavities, and eventually gingivitis. Scientists cannot rule out a link between plaque that forms on the teeth and plaque that builds up in arteries causing heart disease, so dentists recommend removing plaque daily to promote good oral health and good overall health (see References 2).

Home Treatment

Brush teeth at least twice daily with an American Dental Association-approved toothpaste containing fluoride. After eating, plaque bacteria produce acid that corrodes tooth enamel. Over time, this corrosion produces cavities. Brushing the teeth at least twice per day removes the plaque and prevents erosion of the tooth enamel.

Use dental floss or an interdental device to clean between teeth daily. Because regular toothbrushing cannot remove plaque that gathers between teeth, daily flossing is needed to keep these areas safe from plaque buildup. A dentist may recommend using a water jet oral irrigator to help rinse areas with braces or dental work that make it difficult to floss.

Rinse with a mouthwash or chew tablets available over the counter that indicate plaque. These products contain dye that adheres to plaque and colors it brightly, indicating plaque left behind after standard brushing. Improve your brushing habits based on what you see when using these plaque indicators.

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugary foods. A healthy diet helps prevent plaque buildup and cuts back on the acid that damages tooth enamel. Good dietary habits promote general health as well as oral health.

Dental Treatment

Over time, plaque builds up and creates tartar. Tartar is yellow and hard and builds up at the gum line. Dentists check for tartar at dental exams and remove the tartar with dental instruments during cleanings. Regular dental checkups and cleanings help prevent gingivitis, an early form of gum disease. Dentists apply fluoride treatment, and give diet and oral hygiene advice during appointments when a concern is spotted.

During regular cleanings and checkups, dentists examine teeth for dental cavities and gum disease. Treating cavities and gum disease at an early stage prevents tooth loss and other complications.

Optionally, dentists place sealants, invisible coatings for teeth, on hard-to-reach or heavily grooved teeth. The sealants protect teeth from plaque, and prevent dental cavities and gingivitis. It may be difficult to remove all of the plaque with brushing and flossing alone on some teeth because of their location or shape, and dental sealants add extra insurance against damage on those teeth.