Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that tends to stick to the teeth and gums. Because plaque can harm your oral health, you want to take steps to avoid plaque buildup. Your mouth always has bacteria, but plaque can release acidic waste that can attack your attack. This results in serious dental issues like gum disease and cavities. 

It can take just days for plaque to harden into tartar when you do not brush your teeth. And once tartar develops, you won’t be able to get rid of them on your own. Only family dentistry in Fort Walton Beach, FL, can remove tartar and restore the original look of your teeth. Thus, you want to eliminate plaque quickly or prevent it from developing. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day can prevent the formation of plaque. To protect your teeth from tartar, here are tips you should keep in mind:

Brush Your Teeth Using the Correct Pattern

To prevent plaque from developing, you must brush your teeth properly. You must hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and brush gently in circular motions. Do this for at least two minutes. Make sure you brush every tooth’s front, back, and chewing surface.

Use Antiseptic Mouthwash

Using mouthwash after you brush and floss your teeth can help against plaque formation. The mouthwash can get to areas in your mouth that your toothbrush might miss. Also, it can wash away food particles and has ingredients that protect against dental cavities and gum disease. 

Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Foods that contain a huge amount of sugar and starch, like chips, bread, chocolate, candies, and cookies, increase bacterial growth in the mouth. Experts say that fruits and vegetables can help control plaque development. They contain fiber and water that stimulate the production of saliva and improve your dental health. Some fruits are known as natural teeth cleaners. 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Going to a dentist regularly is the best thing you can do for your oral health. While your teeth may seem healthy, you must schedule dental appointments every six months. This way, your dentist can discover any minor issues before they become major ones. In-office teeth cleaning can effectively eliminate plaque and prevent tartar buildup. During your appointment, your dentist will also examine your mouth to find any signs of problems and address them as soon as possible. They can also recommend treatments to fix the dental issues they spot.