According to an article published on Cochrane an electric toothbrush can reduce plaque by 21% in three months and gingivitis by 11% in the same period. This means that an electric toothbrush, if used correctly, is one of the better options form plaque removal and a helping a person maintain oral health and cleanliness.
What is tooth plaque?
Plaque is an unseen layer of bacteria that sticks to your teeth and causes many oral diseases such as tooth decay and gum diseases. While brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is a good way to maintain your oral health, but it is not sufficient to fully prevent oral diseases caused by plaque. If the plaque is not removed properly, it will change in Tarter that can be removed only during dental teeth cleaning.
The plaque produces acids that damage tooth enamel and gum tissue, even it is one of the leading causes of gum diseases and cavities. Plaque accrues on your teeth both beyond and further down your gum line. It makes your teeth yellowish.
Why does plaque build up on teeth?
Plaque is not a natural occurrence, and in fact it can be difficult for some people to get rid of. As well as being made up of food particles, plaque is also made up of dead white blood cells and bacteria that have stuck to the surface of your gums. When you go to brush or floss your teeth regularly, these bacteria will wash off. But, if plaque is allowed to build up and harden then it will continue to cause decay and cavities. You may also develop an infection.
Teeth that are exposed to poor diets and habits will also build up plaque because eating fatty and sugary foods and drinks, smoking and drinking alcohol will make it harder for your teeth to stay healthy. This may leave you with yellow, discoloured and sensitive teeth.
Is plaque bad?
When plaque forms it will be attracted to the acid found in your saliva, and this will kill off some of the bacteria. However, there is still plenty left in your mouth and this will keep building up until it becomes too much. Your dentist will be able to tell you how much plaque has built up in your mouth. They will be able to tell you the best way to clean your teeth and prevent further build up.
Can electric toothbrush remove hardened plaque?
Yes, electric toothbrushes are great when it come to removing harden plaque stains. However, If the plaque doesn’t seem to be clearing up then you may need to see your dentist for more help. The best way to deal with harden plaque is through flossing and brushing on a daily basis, but if you’re already using a special toothbrush then you may also need to use mouth washers to remove the plaque from your teeth.
What causes plaque build up?
While there are several ways you can prevent the build-up of plaque, there are also foods and drinks you can avoid to reduce the build-up. The main culprits that cause plaque build-up are sugary and starchy foods. These include fruit, candy, pasta, bread, and cake as well as soft drinks, juice, and milk. When these food and drinks mix with your saliva, the bacteria in your mouth releases acids to break down the carbohydrates in what you’re eating. It’s these carbohydrates along with the acids and bacteria that cause a build-up of plaque, which is why brushing your teeth after every meal is important.
Here are some additional causes of plaque build up culprits:
1. Sugary Foods
If you eat these sweet and starchy foods regularly and neglect your oral hygiene, you will quickly get a build-up of plaque, and likely have bad breath. If you rub your tongue over your teeth and feel a fuzzy layer of film, this is plaque and a sign that it’s time to get the toothbrush out.
2. Soda
As well as food and drink, there are other things that can cause a build-up of plaque. Those who smoke are more susceptible to plaque. If the germs remain on your teeth for long periods of time, layers of plaque can begin to develop which can harden and form tartar. This bacteria can also find its way under your teeth which can lead to severe gum disease or tooth loss.
3. Medications
Certain medications such as antidepressants can also affect your oral hygiene. Such medication can alleviate the natural flow of saliva and cause dry mouth meaning the excess bacteria in your mouth will increase the risk of plaque build-up. In these situations, some people resort to sucking on candy or chewing gum to prevent dry mouth. However, these sugary aids contribute further toward the build-up of plaque, and regularly sipping on water is a much better solution.
Why you should remove plaque?
Because plaque develops fast and is hard to avoid, it’s important to brush after every meal, floss each day, and use an over-the-counter mouthwash to maintain your oral hygiene and prevent the build-up of plaque. When the plaque is removed from your teeth, you can rinse them with a mouthwash which can get rid of any residual plaque.
However, it is important to remember that you should avoid using mouthwashes that are designed to whiten your teeth. It is important to make sure that you are choosing a mouthwash that has fluoride in it because fluoride helps to neutralise any stains on your teeth. Some mouthwashes have alcohol in them, which can dry out your mouth and damage your gums, as well as leaving your teeth vulnerable to bacteria.
Which electric toothbrush removes plaque best?
The Oral-B iO Series 7 Electric Toothbrush is highly recommended when is come to the removal of plaque. The Oral-B IO offers more control over how much pressure you apply when using an electric toothbrush, which means that you are less likely to damage your gums or cause other types of damage when using one of these devices regularly.
Click here for our full review on the Oral-B iO Series 7 Electric Toothbrush
Conclusion:
If you are still using a manual toothbrush, it might be time to converting to an electric toothbrush that will help you to remove plaque at home. Moreover, electric toothbrushes make brushing easier. Its rotating head is significantly more helpful in removing plaque from your teeth. A powered toothbrush can produce a kind of waterspout effect in your mouth, which can help to prevent plaque to build upon your teeth. Brushing your teeth regularly is very important whether you use a manual or an electric toothbrush.