Taking care of your teeth is super important. If you don’t, plaque on teeth can cause problems like cavities and gum disease. Luckily, preventive dentistry with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., helps stop plaque before it causes trouble.
Regular dental cleanings are a great way to remove and prevent plaque on teeth. If you can’t remember when your last dental cleaning was, now’s the time to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Fairfield, CT. Contact Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., at (203)335-1011 to request a check-up and dental cleaning now!
It is completely normal for plaque to form on teeth. However, you can prevent plaque on teeth naturally with some simple yet impactful habits. Let’s get started!
What Is Plaque on Teeth?
Plaque on teeth is a sticky, biological film of bacteria. It forms when food and saliva mix in your mouth.
If not cleaned, plaque hardens into tartar, which is much more difficult for our Fairfield dentist to remove.
Luckily, brushing and flossing every day can help stop plaque on teeth before it turns into tartar.
Brush Your Teeth the Right Way
Brushing is your first (and best!) defense against plaque on teeth. Dr. Horblitt recommends soft-bristled toothbrushes and toothpaste with remineralizing components, like fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite.
Gently scrub teeth in small circles for two minutes, twice a day. And be sure to clean your tongue, too. Bacteria love to hide there, too.
Floss Every Day
Studies suggest that flossing is just as important as brushing. This step in your oral hygiene routine cleans the spaces where plaque on teeth loves to hide. If you skip flossing, plaque can build up and cause gum disease.
Eat Healthy Foods
Diet plays a huge role in preventing plaque on teeth. For example, fibrous foods (like carrots and celery) help clean your teeth naturally.
However, some foods can feed plaque-causing bacteria, like sugary snacks and drinks. It is best to avoid or consume these items in moderation.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water cleanses the mouth by washing away food and bacteria that cause plaque on teeth. It also helps keep your mouth fresh and clean. Try to drink water after meals to rinse away leftover food.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum with Xylitol
Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after meals can help prevent plaque on teeth. It makes your mouth produce more saliva (which washes away bacteria and food particles) while the xylitol starves cavity-causing microbes.
Try Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient remedy for keeping your mouth clean. Swish a neutral-tasting oil (like coconut oil or MCT oil) in your mouth for about 10 to 15 minutes daily. This helps remove bacteria and keeps plaque on teeth under control.
Don’t Use Alcohol or Tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco can make plaque on teeth worse. They dry out your mouth and help bacteria grow. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are two healthy things you can do for your teeth and gums.
Visit Your Dentist in Fairfield, CT, Regularly
Even if you do everything right, it’s still important to see Dr. Horblitt. Regular check-ups and cleanings with our Fairfield dentist remove plaque on teeth that brushing and flossing can’t reach.
Prevent Plaque and Create Healthy Smiles with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S.
Preventing plaque on teeth naturally is easy if you follow good habits. Brush, floss, eat well, drink water, and visit Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., every six months. Schedule your next visit online here, or call our dentist in Fairfield, CT, at (203) 335-1011 for expert care now!
