WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT PLAQUE BUILDUP

Posted on Dec 9, 2017

Plaque buildup causes conditions like gum disease, which can ultimately affect your overall health in addition to your oral health. If you know what you’re doing, preventing plaque buildup is easy. Your dentist near Belmont will play a big role, but your dental hygiene routine is even more important. Certain foods and beverages are more likely to lead to a buildup and should be used sparingly or not at all. You can also consider making mouthwash a part of your regular dental hygiene regimen. Here’s a closer look at what you can do to keep your teeth plaque-free.

Use the Right Dental Hygiene Techniques

You’re probably aware that you should brush and floss your teeth to keep your oral health up to par. However, you won’t get all the benefits unless you brush and floss the right way. Start by picking up a soft-bristled toothbrush. Bristles that are too strong can damage your gums and wear down your enamel. Gently stroke each tooth in a circular pattern while holding your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. When you floss, use a flosser that makes every spot easy to reach. You can use dental picks, straight brushes, or traditional floss, but don’t forget to get under the gum line.

Know What to Avoid

Two of the typical culprits behind plaque buildup are sugar and starch, which means you should think twice before having a bag of potato chips or a piece of sticky candy. Alcohol and soft drinks are problematic as well. Protect yourself against plaque buildup by drinking water when you choose to indulge yourself, and brush your teeth or chew sugarless gum after you’re done. Bacteria feeds on the sugar that remains in your mouth, so getting rid of it reduces the risk of plaque buildup.

Add Mouthwash to Your Routine

Mouthwash can break down your plaque and make brushing and flossing more effective. Not all mouthwashes are the same, and certain kinds might not be right for you. Talk to your dentist to find one that meets your needs.