Clean teeth and gums
Clean teeth and gums depend on daily plaque removal, cleaning between teeth, limiting frequent sugars, and professional calculus removal.
The short answer
Plaque is a sticky bacterial film on teeth and along the gingival margin. If it remains, it can inflame gums and contribute to decay, while hardened calculus needs professional removal.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Brush every tooth surface with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush, angle bristles toward the gumline, and clean between teeth daily. Limit frequent sugary drinks and snacks.
What can you do next?
A dental professional can remove calculus, inspect for decay, measure gum pockets, and tailor tools to bridges, implants, crowded teeth, or braces. Do not scrape deposits with sharp objects.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek care for bleeding that continues with gentle cleaning, gum recession, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, tooth pain, or sensitivity. Cleaning cannot replace treatment for deeper disease.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether bleeding reflects plaque inflammation or periodontal disease and which brush, interdental tool, fluoride product, and recall interval suit you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main point to remember?
Brush every tooth surface with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush, angle bristles toward the gumline, and clean between teeth daily.
What should I do if it persists?
Seek care for bleeding that continues with gentle cleaning, gum recession, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, tooth pain, or sensitivity.