Plaque and tartar can be extremely dangerous to your oral health, causing damage to your teeth, gums, and even jaw, which can lead to more serious complications in severe cases. Because of this, it’s important to take the right steps to prevent the buildup of tartar and the formation of plaque so you can keep your smile healthy and happy for years to come.
Here are the five essential steps to a tartar-free smile:
- 1.Brush at least twice a day
The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice a day in order to keep tartar buildup to a minimum, but just brushing is not enough: using the right technique is important to protecting your teeth from damage and achieving a clean mouth.
Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching or damaging the enamel layer of your teeth. Choose a fluoride toothpaste and be sure to get into all areas of your mouth, cleaning your teeth, gums, tongue, and the inside of your cheeks. Each time your brush your teeth it should take about two minutes, so use a timer and make sure you are not cutting corners.
- 2. Floss daily
Many patients are not very good at remembering to floss everyday but it is just as – perhaps more – important than brushing.
Flossing is the only way to remove trapped food particles and bacteria from in between the teeth, essential in preventing the formation of tartar and plaque. If you have a tough time flossing, ask your dentist for their recommendations about alternatives such as interdental brushes, floss aides, and water- or air-flossing devices.
- 3. Rinse daily
Another great way to reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth is to use an antibacterial mouth rinse after brushing. This will provide an extra level of protection against tartar buildup. Swish for 30 seconds twice a day after brushing your teeth for the most effective clean.
- 4. Avoid damaging foods
Cleaning your teeth properly is not the only way to prevent the potential complications of tartar buildup: avoiding certain foods will also play a big role in maintaining your oral health. Anything that sticks to your teeth can be difficult to properly remove and may encourage bacterial growth. This includes anything high in sugar or starches such as raisins, sticky candy, and granola.
- 5. Visit your dentist regularly
No matter how effectively you clean your teeth at home, visiting your dentist regularly will also be an absolutely essential aspect of good oral care. Your dentist will provide a superior clean compared to the results found while at home, and will also be able to catch any potential problems quicker the more often they see you.
To learn more about how you can control tartar buildup in your own mouth or in your family’s, contact our office today!