Ways to Remove Plaque and Tartar

Tartar and plaque can damage teeth and gums

Removing plaque and tartar is vital for protecting your teeth. For this reason, dentists recommend teeth cleaning one or more times a year. In fact, dental cleaning is standard practice and a necessary form of maintenance for your teeth.

However, there actions you can and should take on your own to prevent tartar and plaque build-up.

According to Medical News Today, your mouth contains bacteria that break down carbohydrates in food. The breakdown turns creates acid. When leftover food particles mix with acid, they can develop plaque.

How does plaque and tartar form?

Plaque is a sticky film that accumulates along the gum line and on the outside of teeth. When plaque hardens, it turns into a solid yellow-brown substance, known as tartar. Tartar sticks to teeth and is more difficult to remove than plaque. It can lead to swollen gums that bleed, which is an early form of gum disease.

What are some ways to remove plaque and tartar yourself?

The following are some things you can do to remove plaque and tartar:

• Brush with baking soda. Brushing with toothpaste that contains baking soda helps reduce plaque. Baking soda is a safe abrasive agent that does not damage tooth enamel. Furthermore, baking soda can actually protect your teeth against demineralization. Demineralization is a chemical process that removes calcium from tooth enamel. Another advantage of baking soda toothpaste is balancing the pH level in your mouth. It makes your mouth less acidic.
• Brush with fluoride toothpaste and floss. The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. You should start brushing at the back of the mouth with the top molars. Ensure you brush the front and back surfaces of your teeth. Brush all the upper teeth and do the same with the lower teeth. It’s also important to floss between teeth once a day.
• Use a water flosser. The areas between your teeth can be difficult to reach. However, a water flosser can reach the difficult areas. Pressure produced by a water flosser forces the plaque and food particles stuck between teeth to dislodge. A 2016 review indicated using a water flosser and manual toothbrush was 29% more effective than using string floss. Even so, a flosser should not replace traditional flossing. You should use it in addition to it.

Would you like help with dental care?

Give us a call to schedule an appointment. Our number is (512) 806-7740. At Hutto Hippo Family Dental we’re glad to answer your questions and can schedule an appointment.