Plaque is sneaky. It forms when bacteria in your mouth mix with food particles and saliva, creating a sticky film that clings to your teeth. Left untreated, it can harden into tartar, lead to gum disease, and even cause tooth decay. But the good news? You can tackle plaque at home safely and effectively with the right daily habits and tools.
[Fight Plaque with the Slate Flosser]
What Is Plaque, Exactly?
Plaque is a soft, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth and along the gumline. It thrives on sugar and starches in your food, producing acids that wear down enamel and irritate your gums. If not regularly disrupted and cleaned, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Have you ever seen someone with thick yellow buildup along their gumline? That’s tartar, and trust us, you don’t want it.
Safe Ways to Remove Plaque at Home
If you want to stay ahead of the plaque game, here’s your essential home care checklist:
-
Brush Twice Daily
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride (or nanohydroxyapatite) toothpaste. Spend two minutes brushing all surfaces of your teeth, especially near the gumline. Run your tongue across your teeth after brushing to gauge whether or not you’ve done a good job cleaning. -
Floss Daily
Flossing gets what brushing can’t, the plaque hiding between your teeth. Make it a non-negotiable part of your evening routine. Plaque buildup between teeth can lead to tooth decay and cavities. So, if you’re serious about your oral care, then you have to floss consistently. -
Rinse with Water After Meals
A simple swish can help dislodge food particles and neutralize acids. Don’t use harsh chemical rinses, especially any mouthwash that contains alcohol. Those mouthwashes tend to dry out the mouth and kill off good bacteria. We want to focus on gentle, clean routines. If you want to do more than just a quick swish with your water, click here to check out one of our favorite mouth rinses. -
Eat Less Sugar, More Fiber
Sugary foods feed plaque bacteria. The more often leftover sugar sits on your teeth, the more time bacteria have to thrive. Try swapping one snack per day with a crunchy fruit or vegetable like apples or carrots. Believe it or not, these foods actually scrub your teeth while you’re chewing and can lead to less plaque overall.
How the Slate Flosser Helps Prevent Plaque Buildup
If you’re ready to level up your plaque-fighting routine, the Slate Electric Flosser brings the power of professional tools into your daily routine.
Here’s how Slate makes a difference:
-
Patent-Pending Gum Sweeps
Designed to hug and clean the base of each tooth, these flexible rubber extensions help lift and sweep away plaque right at the gumline, where it loves to hide. -
Chemical-Free Woven Floss
Unlike coated or waxy floss that is full of forever chemicals and can leave residue behind, Slate’s floss is free of PFAS, effective, and safe for sensitive mouths. -
Sonic Vibration Technology
Up to 14,000 vibrations per minute help break up sticky plaque while gently stimulating the gums. -
Thin, Reusable Floss Heads
Created for comfort and precision, Slate’s floss heads are perfect for tight teeth and built to last all week long. -
Built-In Tongue Scraper
Get a full-mouth clean by tackling tongue bacteria, one of the hidden contributors to plaque buildup and bad breath.
Clean Teeth, Healthy Mouth — All From Home
Small adjustments can make a big difference when it comes to oral hygiene. These plaque-fighting tips mean that you don’t have to wait for your next dentist appointment to fight plaque. With a few smart habits and the right tools, you can protect your enamel, support gum health, and keep buildup at bay every day.