Dental plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms around teeth, is often referred to as biofilm or mass of bacteria and thrives on surfaces within the mouth. Dental plaque starts forming on teeth 4-12 hours after brushing and can cause many oral health issues, which is why it is advised to brush and floss twice a day.
Bacteria and other microbes enter your mouth when you eat, drink, or breathe, and create acids by feeding on the carbs, sugary food, and drinks that you consume. These acids then destroy tooth enamel, causing tooth decay. Plaque can also form on the tooth’s roots as well as under the gum and slowly eat at the bone supporting the tooth.
The easiest and most convenient way to remove dental plaque is regular brushing and flossing. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss once daily to remove bacteria and food particles stuck between your teeth. Some dentists also advise using electric toothbrushes as they are more effective in removing plaque.
Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can considerably reduce plaque and gingivitis. Probiotic and herbal mouth rinse is effective in plaque removal without staining your teeth.
Adding a pinch of salt and one tablespoon of baking soda to your brushing routine will significantly help in effectively cleaning your teeth as well as naturally removing dental plaque.
Always eat a balanced diet and try to avoid snacks between meals. If you need a snack, opt for healthy foods like fruits, raw vegetables, yogurt, or cheese.
Sesame seeds are healthy and act as a scrub for your teeth to remove plaque. Just chew on a handful of sesame seeds and use an old, dry toothbrush to brush your teeth.
Spicy food is great for your teeth. They increase the production of saliva, thereby washing away food particles forming over your teeth.
The taste might be a bit unpleasant, but rinsing with a vinegar solution is a great, natural way to remove plaque. Gargle with a solution of one tablespoon of salt, two tablespoons of vinegar, and four ounces of water.
Oil pulling with coconut oil is an easy and effective way to remove plaque. Coconut oil has antioxidant properties and is completely safe for teeth. Take one tablespoon of warm coconut oil in your mouth and leave it inside your mouth for about 5-10 minutes before spitting it out in a trash can or on a napkin.
You should eat figs regularly as they help remove plaque and other bacteria from your teeth. Figs are also known to prevent bacterial organisms from accumulating in your teeth.
The antimicrobial properties present in Vitamin C rich foods, like tomatoes and strawberries, are highly effective in removing plaque and other bacteria from your teeth.
If the above remedies don’t give you the desired result, then consult your dentist in West Des Moines for a dental sealant or discuss other treatment options best suited for you. It is important to pay a visit to your dentist every six months for regular oral check-ups and teeth cleaning.
Related article: How Often Should You Really Go to the Dentist?
