972-908-0401
  • About Us
  • Careers
  • Blog
  • Press
  • Instagram
  • tiktok
Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics
  • Find an Office
  • Savings Plan
  • Payment Options
    • Private InsuranceWe accept most dental insurance plans.
    • Sonrisa Dental Savings PlanOur Dental Savings Plan saves patients who don’t have insurance up to 50% off services.
    • Government PlansWe accept many child and adult Medicaid, Chip and Medicare plans.
    • Dental Payment PlansWe offer flexible financing programs with no interest (if eligible), giving you the freedom to prioritize your dental care needs.
  • Services
    • General Services
      • Preventative Dental Services
      • Teeth Cleaning
      • Dental Crowns
      • Dental Fillings
      • Dental Bridges
      • Emergency Dental Care
      • Current Specials and Discounts
    • Specialty Services
      • Invisalign Clear Aligners
      • Dental Laser Therapy
      • Pediatric Dentistry – Dentists for Children
      • Braces and Orthodontics
      • Gum Disease Treatment
      • Emergency Tooth Extraction
      • Endodontist Root Canal Treatment
      • Affordable Dentures
      • 3D Dental Scan & AI Technology
      • Current Specials and Discounts
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
      • Affordable Dental Implants
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Affordable Dental Veneers
      • Current Specials and Discounts
  • About Us
    • Careers
      • Dentists
      • Dental Hygienists
      • Office Team Members
      • Support Center
    • Blog
    • Press
#DentalSafety Movement
HomeBlogWhat is Dental Plaque and How Can I Get Rid of It?

What is Dental Plaque and How Can I Get Rid of It?

On July 2, 2020 Written and Reviewed by JDC Content Committee

What is Dental PlaqueYou’ve probably heard the term “plaque” before, but do you know what it means? We’re not talking about an award; we’re talking about an insidious foe that can wreak havoc on your mouth. Unless you know how to stop it. 

What is Dental Plaque? 

Plaque is bacteria that forms on your teeth. It’s sticky but colorless (or pale yellow) and can make your teeth feel strange when you run your tongue over them. 

Where Does Plaque Come From?

Whenever you eat or drink something with carbohydrates the sugars or starches leave debris behind. Certain bacteria love those starchy and sugary particles and choose to hang around your teeth and gums. Left unchecked, that bacteria builds up and turns to acid or tartar which erodes your teeth and gums. 

Plaque Treatment & Prevention

Many foods we eat leave behind debris, and our mouths need good bacteria to keep us healthy. There are ways to combat plaque, and it’s surprisingly easy. 

  • Brush at least twice per day for at least two minutes to clean all surfaces of your teeth. 
  • Don’t forget to floss daily to catch the debris between your teeth.
  • Add a mouthwash to help rinse away debris that brushing and flossing miss. 
  • Mind your diet and mix plenty of nutritious foods into your meal plan. Vegetables, like celery, help clean your teeth naturally.
  • See your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional teeth cleanings, so they can catch potential issues before they become big problems.

Brushing and flossing regularly is the best way to remove plaque. If you miss some plaque, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove.

Your dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar buildup, but you need to visit them regularly to prevent more damage. If you’re due for a check-up or professional cleaning, book an appointment online at Jefferson Dental and Orthodontics.

 

Our Jefferson Dental Content Committee supports our team by educational and informational articles related to what we do, oral care tips, and current events in our communities.

This blog provides general information and discussions about oral health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, dental advice, diagnosis or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, dental or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.

If you or any other person has an oral health concern, you should consult with your dentist or seek other professional dental treatment immediately. Never disregard professional medical/dental advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please visit your local Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics office — we accept walk-ins.

Related Stories

Traders Village Sponsor

Jefferson Dental Sponsors Traders Village

On January 5, 2013

Read More
children-smiling-clean-teeth

“Jeffy” Motivates Local Kids to Keep Their Teeth Clean

On May 23, 2013

Read More
What is periodontal disease, Gum disease symptoms and treatment

Don’t Wait Till It Hurts: Periodontal Disease

On June 20, 2013

Read More
© 2017 - Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics
  • Careers
  • Notice of Data Event
  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Nondiscriminatory Policy
2f8727989d