How to Get Rid of Plaque on Teeth

Maintaining a healthy, radiant smile goes far beyond just brushing twice a day. One of the biggest threats to oral health—and often the first step toward more serious dental issues—is plaque. This sticky, colorless film of bacteria constantly forms on your teeth and gums, feeding on sugars from the foods and drinks you consume. If not properly managed, plaque can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. 

At Smile For Life Dental, cosmetic dentist Dean Lodding, DDS emphasizes the importance of proactive dental care and professional treatments to help patients maintain clean, beautiful smiles. Through a range of preventive dentistry services, Dr. Lodding can address plaque and other common concerns to enhance not only his patients’ oral health, but also their overall well-being.

What Is Plaque and Why Is It Harmful?

Plaque is made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles. When left on the teeth, plaque can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove without professional help. As plaque accumulates, it produces acids that attack tooth enamel and irritate the gums. This process can eventually lead to: 

• Tooth decay
• Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease)
• Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
• Bad breath
• Tooth loss

Even individuals with excellent brushing habits can miss hard-to-reach areas where plaque tends to accumulate. That is why understanding how to effectively manage plaque buildup is essential for long-term oral health.

Daily Habits That Help Prevent Plaque

The good news is that plaque can be managed with the right daily practices. Here are some simple but powerful steps to keep plaque in check:

1. Brush Thoroughly, Twice a Day

   Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently brush your teeth for at least two minutes, paying attention to all surfaces—including the back teeth and along the gumline.

2. Floss Daily

   Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Skipping this step allows bacteria to flourish in hidden areas.

3. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash

   Mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and plaque buildup while freshening your breath. Look for mouthwashes formulated specifically to fight plaque and gingivitis.

4. Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods

   Sugars and starches feed plaque-causing bacteria. Reducing consumption of sodas, candy, and processed carbs can significantly help lower your risk of plaque buildup.

5. Stay Hydrated

   Water not only helps rinse away food particles but also stimulates saliva production, which plays a natural role in controlling plaque-forming bacteria.

Professional Plaque Removal: What to Expect

Even with diligent at-home care, plaque and tartar can still build up—especially along the gumline and between teeth. That is why routine and professional dental cleanings are so important. During a professional cleaning, one of our hygienists can remove plaque and tartar using specialized tools, helping prevent cavities and gum disease.

For patients with signs of gum disease or more extensive buildup, Dr. Lodding may recommend periodontal care, which goes beyond a standard cleaning to address issues beneath the gumline.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

One of the most effective periodontal treatments for managing advanced plaque and tartar is scaling and root planing, also known as a “deep cleaning.” This non-surgical procedure is typically recommended for patients with gum disease or significant tartar buildup.

• Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline using specialized tools or ultrasonic instruments.
• Root planing smooths the surfaces of the tooth roots, helping the gums reattach and preventing bacteria from easily accumulating in the future.

This treatment can not only improve oral health but also helps protect the aesthetics of your smile—something particularly important to many of Dr. Lodding’s patients.

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?

For most individuals, professional cleanings are recommended every six months. However, patients with a history of gum disease, excessive tartar buildup, or specific cosmetic concerns may benefit from more frequent visits. Dr. Lodding can assess your oral health and create a personalized care plan based on your needs.

Protecting Both Health and Beauty

As a highly experienced cosmetic dentist, Dr. Lodding understands that a healthy mouth is the foundation of a beautiful smile. Plaque control is critical not only for preventing gum disease and tooth decay but also for maintaining the brightness and integrity of cosmetic dental work such as porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or teeth whitening treatments.

At Smile For Life Dental, we combine preventive care with aesthetic expertise to ensure your smile is as healthy as it is radiant.

Schedule Your Professional Cleaning Today

If it’s been a while since your last dental cleaning or you’re noticing signs of plaque buildup—such as bad breath, sensitive gums, or discoloration—don’t wait. Dr. Lodding and our friendly team are here to help you achieve optimal oral health with personalized care and advanced treatments.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help you get rid of plaque—so you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier smile for years to come.