How can I decrease plaque on my teeth?

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  1. Dr. De Vizio
     
    Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:
    Plaque is a film that contains bacteria and sticks to teeth. If it is not removed with daily brushing and flossing it can eventually harden into calculus, or tartar, and cause gum disease. You can decrease plaque on your teeth with these steps: 
    • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
    • Floss your teeth once a day.
    • Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.
    • Have regular dental cleanings.
    More Related Answers from Colgate
    Plaque is a film that contains bacteria and sticks to teeth. If it is not removed with daily brushing and flossing it can eventually harden into calculus, or tartar, and cause gum disease. You can decrease plaque on your teeth with these... More
  2. Dr. Jonathan B. Levine
     
    Battling plaque is so simple, yet the numbers of people who refuse to practice simple ways to combat plaque are staggering. To conquer plaque, a person should brush for about 2 minutes each time. The average American brushes for 38 seconds. Additionally, tackling plaque simply can come down to diet. The best foods to eat are those that are dense and fibrous, such as an apple, because they remove stains and plaque. I also recommend eating alkalizing foods such as spinach, to create a less acidic environment in the mouth.

    Ultimately, plaque is easy to control; you just need to know how. In the end, it could save your life.
    More Related Answers from Dr. Jonathan B. Levine
    Battling plaque is so simple, yet the numbers of people who refuse to practice simple ways to combat plaque are staggering. To conquer plaque, a person should brush for about 2 minutes each time. The average American brushes for 38 seconds.... More
  3.  Carol Jahn
     
    Carol Jahn answered:
    The best way to decrease plaque on your teeth is to brush twice daily and clean between your teeth once a day.  While floss is often the most recommended product for interdental cleaning, it can be challenging for many people.  There are other products that work as well and may be easier to use.  These include floss holders, interdental brushes, and a Water Flosser
    More Related Answers from Carol Jahn
    The best way to decrease plaque on your teeth is to brush twice daily and clean between your teeth once a day.  While floss is often the most recommended product for interdental cleaning, it can be challenging for many people.  There are... More