Plaque is a common dental problem that should not go unnoticed. Apart
from being rather unsightly, plaque can also worsen, and lead to more
serious ailments. There’s an extensive range of products you can use to
get rid of it, but did you know there are also some great chemical-free
natural remedies you can use to prevent or help treat its formation? Now
is the time to get better informed about the matter.
First of all… What is plaque?
Plaque (also known as dental biofilm) is
formed as a result of substances gathering in our mouth after eating or
drinking, appearing as a white or pale yellow “slime layer” between the
teeth and along the cervical margins (the surface touching the gum). The
substance consists of food debris, bacteria, and bacterial waste,
possibly leading to oral complications such as gingivitis and
periodontitis.
Although the formation of plaque is normal for everyone and cannot be
stopped, controlling it is one of the most important things in dental
care. This is because plaque may become acidic, leading to the
demineralization of the teeth or tartar.
What is tartar?
If plaque remains untreated, it can harden
and turn into what is called tartar or calculus. It can form both along
the gum line, and also within the narrow sulcus, found between the teeth
and the gingiva. Tartar may be the cause of bad breath, receding gums,
and chronically-inflamed gingiva, as well as the further formation of
plaque.
When plaque becomes tartar, it becomes far more difficult to remove and
would require clinical help. Tartar formation is not only connected to
oral hygiene, but also tobacco use, drugs, age, diet, and genetics.
There’s a lot you can do to prevent plaque
from forming on your teeth and leading on to something more serious,
such as tartar. To begin with, it is important to get checked regularly
by a dentist to make sure your teeth and gums are in good shape.
Secondly, we recommend that you try some of the best natural techniques
that can rid your mouth from plaque in some simple steps. Here are some
excellent methods that are tried and tested:
THE 8 NATURAL REMEDIES FOR PLAQUE
The combination of these two ingredients is
one of the safest and most effective ways to help you eliminate plaque.
Combine one tablespoon of baking soda and half a teaspoon of salt in a
bowl. Dip a wet toothbrush into the mixture and brush your teeth with
it. Repeat this a few times to achieve great results.
One of the solutions is in your very own
dessert. Snacking on apples or melon just after a meal is one of the
best natural ways of cleaning your teeth and gums from remaining bits of
food, as well as eliminating plaque.
Before brushing your teeth, grab a piece of
orange peel and rub the inner (white) part against your teeth’s surface
for about two minutes. Performing this ritual on a regular basis will
not only render your teeth polished and whitened, but will prevent
plaque build-up due to the vitamin C found in the orange peel.
4. Using other fruit rich in Vitamin C
In addition to oranges, there are various
other fruits that can do wonders for your dental health. Opt for Vitamin
C-rich fruit, such as strawberries, to boost your immune system and
help fight off oral infections. Take full advantage of their benefits by
rubbing them against your teeth and consuming them.
5. Scrubbing with sesame seeds
Sesame seeds may also help you get rid of
plaque, due to properties that enable them to act as a great abrasive to
clear and polish your teeth. Simply grind them against your teeth, then
remove the leftover pieces using a dry toothbrush.
6. Rub with coconut oil paste
beneficial for your dental health. Protect your teeth from plaque by
combining two tablespoons of virgin coconut oil and two tablespoons of
baking soda in a bowl to make a paste. Then, use the paste as a natural
toothpaste to reap the effective benefits. Feel free to also add any
essential oil of your choice to the mixture (such as peppermint).
7. Using Aloe vera
Just as aloe vera is great for our skin,
it’s also perfect for soothing our teeth and gums. Studies have shown
that aloe vera can improve plaque and periodontal conditions and
maintain hygiene in our mouth. Simply apply some aloe vera to your
toothbrush and use it as toothpaste.
The properties of hydrogen peroxide make it
ideal to be used for oral health. Make a mouthwash consisting of three
parts water (or prepared mouthwash) and one part 3% hydrogen peroxide
solution. Swish, gargle and rinse well for one minute daily. This will
act as an astringent and teeth whitener, as well as help remove plaque
and loosen tartar.
Remember some other important tips:
Brush your teeth regularly and
effectively: If you want to avoid plaque accumulation, take this as a
rule of thumb. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush up and down,
carefully reaching and brushing each tooth.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Don’t forget to get your teeth
checked every so often.
• Drink water: Water is a way of rinsing your mouth from food
particles after eating a meal. Make sure you drink enough water each
time.
between your teeth at least once a day (although twice is ideal).
