Even though the formation of plaque on your teeth is a normal process, a significant buildup of plaque can lead to several serious issues if left unresolved. Because of this, it is extremely important to take precautionary measures to avoid plaque buildup in your teeth. Fortunately, plaque buildup can be prevented by taking simple, everyday steps to ensure that your teeth stay clean and healthy.

In this article, we will discuss what exactly plaque is and why it can build up on your teeth, the damage that excessive amounts of plaque can cause, and our expert tips on how you can avoid plaque buildup in your mouth.

What is Plaque?

Plaque goes by many different names, including dental plaque, tooth plaque, microbial plaque, and dental biofilm. All of these terms are used to describe the same sticky film that forms in our mouths and coats our teeth. Plaque is usually colorless, but it may sometimes have a yellowish tint to it. If your teeth haven’t been brushed recently, you may be able to run your tongue across them and feel a distinct film covering your teeth.

Plaque forms when saliva and leftover food mix together and settle on your teeth and gums. It is most frequently caused by foods containing high amounts of carbohydrates, such as candy, soft drinks, and sugary snacks. Because plaque contains bacteria that produce acids, a buildup of plaque eats away at your tooth enamel and, if left untreated, will cause damage to your gums, an increase in cavities, and tooth decay.

Tips to Prevent Plaque Buildup

Because the consequences of plaque buildup can be severe and lead to serious health issues, it is vitally important that you take the preventative measures necessary to avoid plaque buildup and to promote a clean, healthy smile. Here are some of the easy, everyday ways that you can avoid plaque buildup:

Establish a consistent oral hygiene routine

There is no better way to promote a healthy mouth than by creating an oral hygiene routine that you can practice consistently from the comfort of your own home. Be sure to brush your teeth with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and to use an antibacterial mouthwash at least twice a day. You should also floss daily to remove any food particles from between your teeth that cannot be removed with a toothbrush.

Pay attention to the way you brush

The most effective way to ensure that you prevent plaque from building up on your teeth is to pay special attention to brushing the area where your gums and teeth are connected. Also be sure to use a soft bristled toothbrush to avoid scraping off tooth enamel, the loss of which can lead to tooth decay.

Maintain a healthy diet

Since foods containing sugars and starch are the most likely to cause an excess amount of plaque on your teeth, you should try to avoid these foods and replace them with healthier alternatives whenever possible. Instead of reaching for those sugary snacks, grab an apple or some raw vegetables to munch on.

Visit your dentist regularly

In order to maintain a healthy mouth, you should make an appointment with your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning where any plaque buildup can be removed more efficiently by a trained oral hygienist.

Dental Group of Simi Valley is Here to Help

In addition to creating a good oral hygiene routine and making healthy food choices, you should have routine appointments at your dentist to remove any plaque buildup that you may have been unable to avoid.

At Dental Group of Simi Valley, our husband and wife team, Dr. Herschel Berger and Dr. Laura Jen Kin, has created a comfortable, family-owned practice and expert dental care. They pride themselves on offering preventative care as well as educating patients on the importance of proper oral hygiene.

Located in Simi Valley, CA, Dental Group of Simi Valley is the dental practice to visit if you are looking for quality service and a kind dental team that makes you feel comfortable and at ease. If you need to schedule a routine checkup or require further information, call us today. We are happy to answer any questions that you might have.