Plaque Prevention

Posted on 11/1/2024 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

illustration of a magnifying glass showing plaque

Plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth. It's made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. While it might seem harmless, plaque is the leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. Tartar irritates the gums, causing inflammation and infection. This can eventually lead to gum disease, which can damage the bone that supports your teeth. In severe cases, gum disease can even lead to tooth loss.

Brushing and Flossing: Your Best Defense Against Plaque

The good news is that plaque is preventable. With regular brushing and flossing, you can remove plaque before it has a chance to cause problems. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is the best way to prevent plaque buildup.

Here are some tips for brushing and flossing effectively:

•	Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
•	Brush for two minutes, twice a day. Be sure to brush all the surfaces of your teeth, including the back and chewing surfaces.
•	Floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.
•	Use an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque than manual toothbrushes.
•	See your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup, and check for any signs of tooth decay or gum disease.

Other Ways to Prevent Plaque Buildup

In addition to brushing and flossing, there are other things you can do to prevent plaque buildup:

•	Eat a healthy diet. Limiting sugary foods and drinks can help reduce the amount of plaque-forming bacteria in your mouth.
•	Drink plenty of water. Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria.
•	Chew sugar-free gum. Chewing gum can help to stimulate saliva production, which can help to wash away plaque and bacteria.
•	Use mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen breath.

Plaque and Your Child's Oral Health

Plaque is especially important to prevent in children. Children's teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay than adult teeth. This is because children's enamel is thinner and their teeth are more crowded, making it easier for plaque to build up.

Here are some tips for preventing plaque buildup in children:

•	Start brushing your child's teeth as soon as they appear. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
•	Help your child brush their teeth until they are able to do it themselves. Most children are able to brush their own teeth by the age of 6 or 7.
•	Floss your child's teeth once a day. Most children are able to floss their own teeth by the age of 8 or 9.
•	Take your child to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
•	Limit your child's intake of sugary foods and drinks.
•	Encourage your child to drink plenty of water.
•	Let your child chew sugar-free gum.
•	Use a fluoride rinse.

By following these tips, you can help your child develop good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Plaque is a common problem, but it's also preventable. By brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can keep your teeth healthy and plaque-free.

If you have any questions about plaque or oral health, please talk to your dentist. They can provide you with more information and advice on how to keep your mouth healthy.

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Plaque Prevention

Brushing and Flossing: Your Best Defense Against Plaque

Other Ways to Prevent Plaque Buildup

Plaque and Your Child's Oral Health

Conclusion

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