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Dental plaque is a normal phenomenon that affects everyone. Although it is unavoidable, it can nevertheless be prevented. Here is how to limit dental plaque in several ways.
Here are the main methods for limiting plaque formation on your teeth:
Toothbrushing guidelines
1. Brush at least twice a day
You know you should do it, but how often? Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal to remove plaque as soon as it develops. It is particularly important to brush your teeth in the evening before going to bed, because otherwise plaque remains on your teeth all night. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can be harsh on your gums. Make sure to replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months. If it is too worn, your brushing will not be as effective as possible.
2. Clean between your teeth
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Your teeth are not the only places where dental plaque forms. It also hides in the spaces between your teeth. It is therefore essential to clean thoroughly between your teeth. It is important to know that brushing your teeth alone does not remove plaque between the teeth. You should floss at least once a day. If wrapping floss around your fingers is not for you, there are other equally effective options, such as interdental brushes and water flossers.
3. Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwash helps prevent the appearance of dental plaque. It also helps loosen it, making it easier to remove. However, a mouthwash that is good for someone else may not be right for you. You should choose a mouthwash according to your needs. If you have gingivitis, sensitive teeth or a tendency to develop cavities, your mouthwash should be adapted accordingly. Some alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth. Ask your dentist which one is right for you.
You can try the Y-Brush toothbrush to brush your teeth. It removes 15% more plaque than a traditional toothbrush and brushes all your teeth and their surfaces at the same time.
Natural remedies
1) Baking soda
Twice a week, you can replace your toothpaste with baking soda. Preparing this remedy is simple: place baking soda powder on your previously moistened toothbrush and brush as usual. It can also be used as a mouthwash, but no more than once a week because it is abrasive. The double benefit of baking soda is that it helps whiten your teeth without resorting to professional teeth whitening.
2) Orange peels
They contain limonene, a substance known for acting on dental plaque to limit its formation. Preferably use organic oranges and rub your teeth with the white side of the peel. You can also cut the white part of the orange peel into small pieces and mix them with a little water. Oranges are rich in vitamin C and have antimicrobial properties that can help you get rid of dental plaque and strengthen your teeth.
3) Linden and sunflower seeds
Preparing this remedy is simple: mix 5 teaspoons of sunflower seeds and an equal amount of linden. Then place everything in a saucepan over low heat. It is important to simmer the preparation for at least half an hour. Next, wait for the solution to cool and strain it to collect the liquid. You can brush your teeth with this homemade preparation for 2 or 3 days if you keep it properly refrigerated.
Suitable treatments and solutions
1) A healthy diet
Regularly consuming excessive amounts of sugary and acidic foods and drinks promotes the proliferation of bacteria in the mouth, as well as the development of problems such as tooth decay. To have a healthy mouth, you should first consider adopting good eating habits. It is therefore important to eat fruits and vegetables that are good for your teeth. These foods should help you keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent the formation of dental plaque.
Here are the types of food you should eat:
- Antioxidants: carrots, tomatoes, peppers, berries and oranges.
- Foods containing fluoride: fish, green tea and nuts.
- Dairy products: yogurt, cheese and crème fraîche.
2) Using dental floss
It complements toothbrushing, which only reaches two-thirds of the surface of our teeth. Used daily, dental floss removes plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. You should choose dental floss that suits your teeth and place it between each of your teeth. It is important to remember that you should floss for at least approximately 2 minutes after each brushing session.
3) Scaling and polishing at the dentist
The first step, scaling or debridement, removes deposits of dental plaque and tartar. Find out more about how to remove tartar from your teeth and prevent it from forming. To do this, the dentist generally uses an ultrasonic device to remove most of the tartar, then all remaining stubborn deposits are removed using specific hand instruments. The next step consists of “polishing” the teeth so that the surface is completely smooth. This helps correct minor imperfections and rough-textured areas on the teeth, providing protection against new plaque buildup.
We hope this guide has helped you understand that brushing regularly, correctly and with a good mouthwash can help prevent the formation of dental plaque and tartar. All natural remedies help prevent the formation of or remove tartar from your teeth. All treatments and solutions should be used alongside natural remedies.
