According to the School of Dentistry at the University of California, Los Angeles, dental plaque is a soft deposit that builds up on the enamel of teeth. It occurs due to bacteria growth and is composed of bacteria, phosphorus and calcium. Dental plaque can easily be removed through flossing, using mouthwash and brushing. Once the deposit calcifies, however, it can only be removed at a dental clinic. Calcified dental plaque can lead to oral hygiene problems, affecting 75 percent of adults in the United States at some point in their lives.
Using a Toothbrush
According to Dr. Malm of the Institute for Advanced Dental Education, the best way to remove dental plaque at home is with a toothbrush. The American Dental Association, or the ADA, encourages people to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Care should be taken to clean all the teeth surfaces, with brushing done at a 45-degree angle on the gum line. The ADA further states that up and down brushing strokes allow for the removal of dental plaque from the inside section of the front teeth. The recommendation is that new toothbrushes should be purchased at least every three months, since the bristles can be worn out from brushing. People are encouraged to brush at least twice a day.
Using Dental Floss
The ADA recommends the use of dental floss to help remove dental plaque at home. Dental floss can be used between teeth to break up any possible formation of dental plaque. To prevent gum irritation, the dental floss should not be pulled across the gum as this can lead to further gum disease. Effective dental flossing involves brushing against the plaque in a sweeping movement.
Using Mouthwash
According to Best Dental Hygiene Advice, a website supported by the United Kingdom government, mouthwash is also an effective way of removing dental plaque. Available over the counter, a mouthwash is a liquid substance that can be rinsed around the mouth and spat out. It can be used to prevent the buildup of plaque and prevent tooth decay. It can prove to be advantageous over tooth brushing as it can reach places that are not accessible with the tooth brush.
