Dental plaque can sneak up on you, but you can take control with a few easy changes to your daily routine. Whether you’re receiving regular dental services in Denver, CO, or just trying to step up your game at home, keeping dental plaque at bay is crucial for your oral health. So, let’s explore six simple yet effective ways to reduce dental plaque and keep your smile shining bright!
Are you noticing plaque build-up developing on your smile? An in-depth cleaning at Metropolitan Dental Care can help! Schedule your cleaning and check-up today by calling our Denver, CO, dentists at (303) 534-2626.
1. Brush Up Like a Pro
Brushing your teeth might seem basic, but doing it correctly makes all the difference. For starters, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect tooth enamel, and brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.
Focus on every nook and cranny, especially near the gum line where dental plaque loves to hide. Electric toothbrushes are excellent for giving your teeth an extra boost, as they provide consistent, powerful strokes that manual brushing may not always achieve.
2. Floss Like It’s Your Job
Dental plaque isn’t just a surface-level issue – it gets between your teeth, too! That’s why flossing daily is a must.
Floss removes those tricky bits of food and plaque stuck in the tight spaces where your toothbrush can’t reach. So, get into the habit of flossing every night before bed. It may feel like a small task, but it makes a huge difference in reducing dental plaque buildup and keeping your gums healthy.
3. Mouthwash for the Win
Mouthwash reaches areas of the mouth that brushing and flossing might miss. Our Denver dentists recommend an alcohol-free, fluoridated mouthwash to avoid any harsh dryness and to protect tooth enamel.
Use the wash daily for a full-mouth clean to reduce dental plaque and combat bacteria that cause odorous breath. It’s a double win!
4. Crunch Your Way to Cleaner Teeth
Believe it or not, what you eat can impact dental plaque. In fact, research suggests that eating around five servicing of crunchy veggies and fruits (like apples, carrots, and celery) can act as natural plaque scrubbers, reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
5. Stay Hydrated
Water is your smile’s best friend! Drinking the recommended 64 oz. of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and keeps the oral environment moist, reducing the likelihood of dental plaque. After meals, sip on water to give your teeth a quick rinse and reduce the chances of dental plaque hanging around.
6. Schedule Regular Dental Services
While home care is essential, professional dental services provide that extra layer of defense. Regular cleanings at Metropolitan Dental Care remove stubborn dental plaque that even the best brushing and flossing can’t tackle. So, try to schedule dental cleanings at least twice a year for optimal oral health.
Plaque-Free Smiles Await at Metropolitan Dental Care!
Tackling dental plaque doesn’t have to be a chore. With these six easy tips, you can keep your teeth squeaky clean and your gums healthy, ensuring your next dental visit is a breeze. Don’t wait for plaque to take over – schedule a cleaning at Metropolitan Dental Care online or call our Denver, CO, dental office at (303) 534-2626 for scheduling!
