Plaque Buildup: How to Fight It the Right Way

When it comes to oral health, plaque is a persistent enemy that must be challenged with daily commitment to sound oral hygiene. Because it contains bacteria that can cause decay and gum disease, plaque can threaten your teeth’s structural integrity and lead to other serious oral health concerns. Unfortunately, your body has no natural system for eliminating plaque altogether – and that means that it’s up to you to remove plaque from your teeth. The good news is that there are things you can do to avoid plaque buildup and safeguard the health of your teeth and gums.

Plaque’s Persistent Threat

If you have ever felt that sticky film on the surface of your teeth, then you’re familiar with plaque. It is typically present in some quantity after you’ve eaten, or when you haven’t had the chance to brush for several hours. Plaque’s stickiness represents a real threat to your tooth enamel, since it helps acids to remain in contact with those teeth. That contact can eat away at your tooth enamel, leading to decay and even tooth loss.

When your oral hygiene is lacking, plaque can do even greater harm. Over time, all that plaque buildup can allow bacteria to impact your gums – causing them to be tender and swollen. Unless you address these problems, the situation can become even more dire, resulting in serious gum disease. Obviously, plaque is a real danger that must be dealt with before it has a chance to do lasting harm to your oral health.

Fighting Plaque Buildup the Right Way

A sound oral hygiene regimen can do wonders for your teeth and gums. To keep plaque buildup in check, focus on a regular program of dental hygiene that includes the following key elements:

• You’ve heard it million times, but it’s as true today as it’s ever been: brushing is critical! You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes a session. If you’re struggling to remember to brush, then try doing it first thing in the morning and late at night before you sleep.
• Flossing is essential for removing debris and bacteria that brushing misses. You should be flossing each day, targeting each tooth in your mouth. Like brushing, this is a vital component of oral health care.
• A great anti-bacterial mouthwash can really beef up your oral health regimen. Use it daily to ensure that harmful bacteria are kept at bay.
• Regular dental care. Schedule and keep appointments with your dental care provider. She can provide the examinations and regular cleaning you need to keep plaque in check and protect your teeth and gums.

At Ebenezer Dental, we are committed to helping you in your battle against plaque. That’s why we strive to provide the best dental care in the area, and a full range of dental services that can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful for life. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment with the best dentist in midtown Manhattan.