Plaque is the sticky, almost invisible film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. The good news is that you can remove it yourself, at home, if you act before it hardens. I'm Dr. Max Babiner, DMD, and here is how I tell my own patients to do it.
What plaque is, and why it matters
Plaque forms continuously. The bacteria in it feed on sugars and starches and produce acids that can wear down enamel and irritate your gums. Left in place, plaque can contribute to cavities and gum inflammation (gingivitis).
Plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar (also called calculus), commonly within a few days. This is the key point: plaque can be removed at home, but tartar cannot. Once plaque has hardened, only a dentist or hygienist can remove it with professional tools.
5 steps to remove plaque at home
- Brush twice a day for two minutes. Most people brush for far less. Use a soft-bristled brush and a fluoride toothpaste, and use gentle pressure. Scrubbing hard does not remove more plaque and can irritate gums.
- Angle the bristles toward the gumline. A 45-degree angle lets the bristles reach just under the gum edge, where plaque collects first.
- Clean every surface. The front, the back (tongue side) and the chewing surfaces of every tooth all collect plaque. The back surfaces are the ones most often skipped.
- Floss or clean between your teeth once a day. A toothbrush cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth. Floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser all work. Pick the one you will actually use every day.
- Do not skip the evening clean. Brushing before bed removes the day's plaque before saliva flow slows overnight.
Does a different toothbrush help?
Technique matters more than anything, but the tool can make good technique easier. A powered brush helps many people because it keeps a steady motion and often includes a timer. I designed Triple Bristle with a three-sided brush head that cleans the front, back and sides of the teeth at the same time, which makes it easier to reach the surfaces people tend to miss.
What about "plaque removing" tricks online?
Be careful with home remedies. Baking soda scrubs, lemon juice, vinegar and charcoal powders are sometimes promoted for plaque or whitening. Acidic or abrasive products can wear away enamel, and enamel does not grow back. Stick to the basics above unless your dentist suggests otherwise.
When to see your dentist
See your dentist or hygienist if you notice rough, yellow or brown buildup near the gumline that does not brush away, gums that bleed regularly, persistent bad breath, or tooth sensitivity. Most people benefit from a professional cleaning and exam about every six months, or as often as your dentist recommends.
The bottom line
Brush twice a day for two minutes, angle toward the gumline, clean every surface, and clean between your teeth daily. Do that consistently and you remove plaque before it has a chance to harden.
This article is general education and not a substitute for personal dental advice. Talk to your own dentist about your specific needs.