Oral health is essential for the overall state of the body. Our daily routine of maintaining teeth and gums greatly affects preventing diseases such as periodontal disease, caries and other dental complications. Teeth cleaning and plaque removal are key steps in maintaining oral hygiene and ensuring a healthy smile. In this article, we will explain why teeth cleaning is necessary, how to properly remove plaque, and the possible problems if we neglect this important step.
What is dental plaque and why should it be removed?
Dental plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms daily on the surface of the teeth and along the gum line. These bacteria use the sugars in the food and drinks we consume to produce acid, which can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Also, the accumulation of plaque can cause inflammation of the gums and lead to more serious problems such as periodontal disease.
Regular teeth cleaning and proper plaque removal are key to preventing the development of gum and tooth disease. If plaque is not removed properly, it can harden and form tartar, which is much more difficult to remove without professional help.
Daily oral hygiene
Proper dental cleaning includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing to remove plaque between your teeth, and rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic liquid. Here are some tips for proper teeth cleaning:
- Using the right toothbrush: For effective plaque removal, use a brush with soft bristles. Position the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and use light, circular motions. An excellent choice is also electric toothbrushes, which enable more precise cleaning of the teeth.
- Correct brushing technique: When brushing, be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth – front, back and bite. Brushing should last at least two minutes to effectively remove plaque.
- Flossing: Many people overlook this important step, but flossing is key to properly removing plaque between teeth where a brush can’t reach. Daily flossing is an integral part of proper oral hygiene.
- Using antiseptic mouthwashes: Antiseptic mouthwashes help reduce plaque-causing bacteria and freshen your breath.
Why is plaque removal so important?
Plaque removal is key to maintaining healthy gums and teeth. If the plaque is not removed, inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) can occur, which can develop into a more serious condition – periodontitis. Symptoms of periodontal disease include redness, bleeding gums, receding gums and bad breath. If left untreated, periodontitis can cause tooth loss.
By regularly removing plaque during your daily routine and with the help of a professional dental examination, you can prevent these complications and preserve the health of your gums and teeth.
When is a professional teeth cleaning necessary?
If plaque hardens and forms tartar, you won’t be able to remove it with a toothbrush and floss. In such cases, it is necessary to visit a dentist for professional teeth cleaning. During the dental examination, your dentist will use special instruments to remove plaque and calculus and advise on proper oral hygiene.
Dental cleaning at the dentist is recommended every six months or more often, depending on the condition of the teeth and gums. People who are prone to plaque build-up or have symptoms of periodontal disease may need to visit the dentist more often.
Symptoms of dental plaque problems
When plaque is not removed properly, it can lead to several oral problems. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Redness, swelling or bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing.
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Receding gums or the appearance of “pockets” between the teeth and gums.
- Tooth sensitivity to cold or heat.
These periodontal symptoms are a sign that you should visit the dentist and check the health of your gums and teeth. A dental examination will determine whether there is a need for professional plaque removal and treatment.
Prevention is the key
The best way to avoid complications caused by plaque is regular and proper oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing and rinsing with an antiseptic solution are key steps to maintaining oral health.
In addition, regular dental examinations and professional teeth cleaning ensure early detection and treatment of problems before they develop into more serious diseases such as periodontal disease.
A professional examination by a dentist is necessary
Cleaning teeth and removing plaque are basic components of proper oral hygiene. No matter how carefully you clean your teeth at home, a professional dental examination and cleaning is necessary to remove plaque that cannot be removed by regular brushing. Neglecting these steps can lead to serious problems such as periodontal disease and tooth loss.