To remove plaque from teeth effectively, follow these expert-recommended steps:

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, short strokes to clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, chewing surfaces, and your tongue

• Floss Once Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline where a toothbrush can’t reach. Use about 18 inches of floss, gently sliding it in a C-shape around each tooth and moving it up and down

• Use Mouthwash: An antiseptic or therapeutic mouthwash can reduce bacteria that cause plaque and freshen breath. Rinsing daily complements brushing and flossing

Additional Home Remedies

• Baking Soda: Brushing with toothpaste containing baking soda or applying a small amount of baking soda on your toothbrush can help remove plaque due to its mild abrasive and antibacterial properties

• Oil Pulling: Swishing coconut or olive oil in your mouth for 20-30 minutes may reduce plaque and soothe gums, thanks to the antimicrobial effects of fatty acids like lauric acid

• Natural Options: Rubbing the inside of an orange peel on your teeth overnight can help break down plaque due to limonene and vitamin C content

Professional Care

• Regular Dental Cleanings: Plaque that hardens into tartar cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone. Professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist, involving scaling and polishing, is necessary to remove tartar and maintain oral health

• Routine Dental Visits: Visiting your dentist every six months or as recommended ensures early detection and removal of plaque and tartar buildup

By combining thorough daily oral hygiene with occasional home remedies and regular professional cleanings, you can effectively remove plaque and maintain healthy teeth and gums.