In this article we look at plaque, how it is formed and why it is a danger to your oral health. Furthermore we consider the good and bad habits related to fighting plaque.

Most of us are very much aware of the fact that plaque is no friend to your teeth. From the advertisements and the packaging on your toothpaste tube to advice from your dentist: we all know that fighting plaque is an essential part of keeping your pearly whites in good condition. In this article, we will be looking at a few habits you should definitely avoid in order to fight the good fight.

A dentist who specializes in All-on-Four Dentures in Chicago informs us that plaque build-up gradually hardens, forming tartar or calculus on your teeth. Once this has taken place, only a professional cleaning at a dentist can get rid of it. Why is this build-up bad? Quite simply put… it causes gum disease, which leads to tooth-loss among other oral ailments.

Habits That Helps the Fight against Plaque Build-Up

• Have you brushed your teeth? Not brushing regularly is a sure way to allow plaque to build up. You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, every day! Maintaining a good standard of oral hygiene is essential in protecting your teeth from plaque and decay.

• It’s all about the floss: Your mouth is filled with pockets, nooks and crannies that are hard to reach by brushing alone; flossing gets into those tiny spaces and removes food debris and plaque at the gum line. Plaque below the gum line can lead to serious oral inflictions such as periodontal (gum) disease.

• Rinse: Antibacterial rinses help reduce plaque and the risk of gingivitis, not to mention leaving your mouth feeling fresh and healthy. Opting for a fluoride rinse has proven to prevent decay and should be a consistent addition to your brushing and flossing daily oral hygiene routine.

• Visit your local dentist: Dentists are not nearly as scary as the variety of oral ailments you could be harboring by avoiding your next check-up! The proof is in the scientific studies, which show that people who neglect to go for regular check-ups are far more prone to cavities and tooth loss. You should go to your dentist at least twice per year.

• Nature’s way: Many properties found in natural, healthy fruits and vegetables are nature’s way of helping your body in the fight against plaque. Crunchy fruits and vegetables literally scrub your teeth, while providing essential vitamins and minerals, strengthening and protecting your dental enamel.

• Restrain your sweet tooth: Bacteria thrive on high-sugar foods and produce acidic wastes, which ruin your teeth. All high-sugar foods and drinks contribute to plaque formation and build-up. Try to lessen your sugar intake as much as possible.

A Final Few Words

An implant dentist in Chicago informs us that keeping your teeth free from plaque is not a difficult task, but consistency in your daily oral habits and diet choices will be the most important step in ensuring that your teeth are healthy and as plaque-free as possible. You can start fighting plaque from home by following the simple advice above, and by visiting your dentist regularly you can ensure that your pearly whites remain healthy, happy and beautiful!