Plaque is the filmy substance that coats the teeth releasing acids that gradually erodes the tooth enamel and causes decay. It is important to remove plaque as soon as possible to prevent long-term damage to the teeth, which will then need to receive dental treatment.
The most effective way to remove plaque, before it has the opportunity to cause any damage, is by brushing. Wirral dentists recommend brushing your teeth for three minutes twice a day, at least. Ideally it would be after every meal but this isn’t always practical. You should brush your teeth with a brush that has soft bristles for maximum plaque removal. This also has the advantage of not causing any unnecessary gum erosion, which can happen with harder bristles. Dentists also recommend using a brush with a small head so that it can reach more parts of the teeth.
You should hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums so that they are gently cleaned at the same time as the teeth. It can also make a difference what toothpaste you use. For some patients it is beneficial to use a toothpaste with a high fluoride content but it is always a good idea to check with your dentist first.
As well as brushing, it is also necessary to use dental floss at least once a day. This removes plaque from the smaller areas of the teeth and gums that it is difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush. Both brushing and flossing not only keep your teeth free from plaque but they also help to prevent bad breath, 90% of cases of which are caused by insufficient oral hygiene. Ask your dentist for more advice on effective tooth brushing and which brush and paste would be most suitable for your teeth.
Dental care is quite straight forward if you follow a few simple rules given to you by your Toxteth dentist. Although each patient is different and our teeth do differ, there are certain bits of advice that are almost universal.