Alternatives for Removal of Dental Plaque

A mega-watt smile is no longer just for movie stars and super models. Since teeth whitening strips for home use were introduced in 2001, consumers from all walks of life have been scheduling dental appointments for bleaching, bonding and veneers. Yet, reducing plaque build-up remains the primary goal of dentists, since this sticky, clear film erodes tooth enamel and threatens to destroy healthy teeth.

Brushing

• A mouth with minimal plaque requires daily maintenance. Begin by brushing the teeth and tongue twice a day. Brushing doesn't need to be boring, either. Sonic toothbrush technology makes the task simple yet efficient at a speed of up to 30,000 strokes per minute. For under $30 you can own a light-activated, ionic brush that attracts plaque and neutralizes acidity. A combination of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide works as good as any toothpaste for both whitening and plaque removal, says Dr. Linda Page in the 12th edition of her natural health reference manual, Healthy Healing.

Flossing and Rinsing

• Don't skip the dental floss, as this daily step fights plaque from between teeth where brushes miss. Flossing can be innovative and novel, too, with unsweetened, anti-bacterial cranberry-coated floss. Flavonoids in the fruit assist in breaking up plaque and inhibiting bacteria where gums meet the teeth. Oral irrigators also remove plaque-forming bacteria, and may be the tool of choice for anyone who finds it hard to reach back molars. Use a pick with a thin, curved metal tip like a hygienist wields for serious tartar build-up around teeth.

  Mouthwashes also help keep bacteria at bay. However, select alcohol-free formulas rather than those with alcohol, as the latter tend to dry out the mouth and promote an environment where bacteria thrive. A study conducted at the University of Melbourne and published in the Dental Journal of Australia found that participants using alcohol-based mouthwashes were five times more likely to develop oral cancer than those who didn't use them, according to Michael McCullough, an associate professor of dental medicine at the university. Instead, look for water-based rinses containing tea tree oil, oil of spearmint, witch hazel or aloe vera gel.

Air Abrasion and Sealants

• Visit a dental hygienist two to three times a year to remove the stubborn plaque a home routine misses. In addition to scaling with a pick, some dental offices use a procedure called air abrasion. A spray of cool air containing tiny sand particles painlessly blasts away plaque, surface stains and even minor tooth decay. Once teeth are professionally cleaned, ask the dentist about a plastic sealant to coat and protect cavity prone molars from future plaque build-up.

Foods and Xylitol

• Apples, celery, cauliflower, and unsweetened yogurt help keep teeth clean of plaque-forming bacteria. Bacteria multiply on teeth and gums coated with foods containing refined sugar. Paradoxically, a sweetener that closely resembles sugar called xylitol helps remove bacteria from the mouth, and its granulated form substitutes for sugar in recipes and beverages. Xylitol-sweetened gum also helps check plaque formation. Instead of drinking sugar-laden sodas and fruit juices, opt for water or unsweetened green tea, which is full of flavonoids that neutralize bacteria.