Lack of proper dental care prompts the bacteria in the mouth to form a plaque with a faster rate. This can lead to inflammation of gums, soreness and redness in gums, swelling and bleeding during and after tooth brushing. Here are five tips to prevent plaque in your mouth:
1. Brushing twice a day in a correct manner
Ideally, one should brush twice a day. Day brushing followed by night brushing before sleeping is very important. Make sure that you are using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Toothbrush with hard bristles can turn rough on the teeth and can damage the tooth enamel. Change the brush as soon as it is worn out. Learn to hold the brush at an angle of 45 degrees to your gums while brushing your teeth to get the best results. Use gentle and circular strokes. Brush outer and inner surfaces gently. Spend minimum 2 minutes to brush. Electronic brushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes.
2. Flossing
Though brushing has its own importance, there are hiding places and pockets where plaque can gather. It can hide in spaces between your teeth. So, flossing at least once a day becomes important according to dentist oshawa. There are many effective ways to floss like dental picks, pre-threaded flossers, water flossers and wooden plaque removers. You can floss before you brush or after – there is no right or wrong time to floss. Make sure you floss once a day to prevent plaque.
3. Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwash is a good option for many to prevent plaque. Mouthwash is generally recommended based on patient’s need, whether he is prone to cavities, or have gum inflammation or is suffering from a dry mouth. Mouthwash with alcohol is prevented in case of plaque and also those suffering from dry mouth as dry mouth also leads to plaque.
4. Cut back on sugar and starch
The more sugary and starchy is your food, the more bacteria rushes to the sugar left in the mouth after the meals. The worst food to cause plaque if left behind in the mouth is carbonated drinks, alcohol, sticky candies that get stuck to teeth, starchy food like potatoes and bread, chocolates and sweets. Best is to drink plenty of water when you treat yourself to these kinds of food. Try not to snack in between meals. If you are away from home, try to chew sugarless chewing gum after meals.
5. Visit your dentist regularly
No matter, whatever methods you use and try at home to keep your oral health to the best, there are some places within your dental structures where your brush doesn’t reach to clean them properly, especially under the gums or behind the molars. An visit your dentist will help to address any concerns about plaque quickly and give proper treatment before it becomes a bigger problem.
Keep in mind the oral health as a priority, as this will help you to smile for a longer period of your life.