Weak Fitness

What it’s Plaque and how to get rid of it.

Individuals  used to think that as you got older you naturally lost your teeth. We now know that’s not true. By following easy steps for keeping your teeth and gums -healthy plus seeing your dentist regularly-you can have your teeth for a lifetime.

Plaque –  What’s it?

Plaque is made up of invisible masses of harmful germs that live in the mouth and stick to the teeth.

•  Some kinds of plaque cause tooth decay.

•  Other types of plaque cause gum disease.

Red, puffy or bleeding gums may be the first signs of gum illness. When gum illness is not treated, the tissues holding the teeth in place are destroyed and the teeth are eventually lost.

Dental plaque is difficult to see unless it’s stained. You can stain plaque by chewing red “disclosing tablets,” found at supermarkets and drug stores, or by using a cotton swab to smear green food coloring on your teeth.  The red or green color left on the teeth will show you where there is still plaque-and where you’ve to brush again to remove it. Stain and examine your teeth regularly to be certain you are removing all plaque. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if your plaque removal techniques are o.k.

Floss

Make certain to use floss to remove germs and food particles between teeth. Rinse.

Holding floss.

Using floss between upper teeth.

Using floss between lower teeth.

NOTE. Ease the floss into place gently. Don’t snap it into place-this could harm your gums.

Brush Teeth

Make sure to use any tooth brushing method that is comfortable, but do not scrub hard back and forth.

Small circular motions and short back and forth motions work well. Rinse.

To prevent decay, it’s what’s on the toothbrush that counts. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is what protects teeth from decay.

Brush the tongue for a fresh feeling. Rinse again.

Remember –  Food residues, particularly sweets, provide nutrients for the germs that cause tooth decay, in addition to those that cause gum illness. That’s why it is important to remove all food residues, in addition to plaque, from teeth. Remove plaque at least once a day-twice a day is better. When you brush and floss once daily, do it before going to bed.

Another way of removing plaque between teeth is to use a dental pick-a thin plastic or wooden stick. These picks may be purchased at drug stores and grocery stores.