Dental plaque is a colorless or whitish sticky film that builds up on the teeth and gums, particularly at the gums margin. Let's see what causes plaque to accumulate on teeth.
Causes of Plaque Accumulation
1. Bacteria - Bacteria are naturally present in the mouth and feeds on sticky food particles.
2. Food - Sugary and sticky foods like candy, sweets, fruits that contain sugar, chocolates etc.
3. Poor oral hygiene - Not brushing properly .
4. Other factors - Certain medications and medical conditions.
2. Food - Sugary and sticky foods like candy, sweets, fruits that contain sugar, chocolates etc.
3. Poor oral hygiene - Not brushing properly .
4. Other factors - Certain medications and medical conditions.
Various Ways To Get Rid of Plaque
1. The Tooth Brush
Toothbrushes vary in size and designs as well as in length. When recommending a particular toothbrush, ease of use by the patient and the perception that the brush works well are the important considerations.
A. Manual toothbrush- For adults, soft bristle toothbrush is ideal
For kids- Small head with soft bristles.
For kids- Small head with soft bristles.
B. Electric toothbrush- These are more effective for plaque removal.
How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?
Most clinician recommend that toothbrushes be replaced every 3-4 months.
How Long Should You Brush Your Teeth?
You should brush your teeth at least two minutes, twice a day.
Correct Method of Brushing
For Adults - Modified bass technique that involves holding the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gum line. Brush the outer surface of 2-3 teeth using a back and forth motion and rolling motion as shown in the figure . Repeat the same on inner surface.
For Children -Fones brushing technique, gently brush the teeth in small circles or in circular motion.
2. Interdental Cleaning Aids
1. Dental Floss
# Technique of Flossing -
* Start with a piece of floss, and wrapped around the fingers, or the ends may be tied together in a loop.
* Stretch the floss tightly between the thumb and forefinger and it gently through each contact area as shown in figure.
* Use firm back and forth motion. Do not snap the floss.
* Form a C shape around one tooth and slide it up and down against the side of the tooth .
* Repeat this method in every tooth contact area.
# When to Floss?
You should floss before brushing, once a day.
2. Interdental Brushes
A wide variety of interdental cleaning aids are available for removing microbial plaque between the tooth.
Most common are conical or cylindrical brushes etc.
# Technique
Insert through interproximal surfaces and moved back and forth between the teeth with short strokes as shown in figure.
The diameter of brush should be slightly larger than the gingival embrasures to be cleaned.
3. Dentifrices
1. Fluoridated Toothpaste -
Fluoride helps to prevent cavities, reduce tooth sensitivity, and strengthen teeth.
Amount of toothpaste -
0-12 months - tiny smear of water
1-2 years - grain of rice
3-6 years - pea size amount
4. Oral Rinse
1. Mouthwash
It is a liquid oral hygiene product used to rinse the mouth, freshen the breath, and help reduce bacteria.
There are different types of mouthwash-
A. Fluoride mouthwash
B. Antiseptic mouthwash
C. Usually, 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash is prescribed by dentist to treat gingivitis and post surgical infections.
It depends on the condition of patient's oral health.
# How to use mouthwash?
1. First brush your teeth and if possible floss your teeth.
2. Pour the right amount of mouthwash, generally 15-20ml is used. Use the cap given with mouthwash bottle.
3. Swish for 30-60 seconds and make sure that it reaches all area.
4. Spit it out and and avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing with water for at least 30 minutes.
# How Often To Use It?
Once or twice a day depending on the type of mouthwash and the condition of your oral cavity.
More than twice a day is not recommended as it can cause side effects.
Avoid overuse of mouthwash.
5. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental checkup are very important to keep our teeth healthy.
Click on this link to learn more in detail.
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