“Fuzzy” is not really an adjective you’d want to use to describe your teeth, but many of us have been there where we feel an unusual, almost furry coating on our teeth. You can try right now: run your tongue along your teeth and see if they feel smooth or a little rough and sticky. So what causes that unpleasant feeling? The answer lies with plaque!
The “Fuzz” Called Plaque
If you don’t brush your teeth often enough, or don’t do such a thorough job, it can leave you with a sticky coating of plaque on your teeth. This bacteria-ridden film of plaque is behind that feeling of fuzziness you get after you wake up and periodically during the day. It’s important to not let plaque make its permanent home on your teeth because it produces acids that damage your enamel, lead to cavities, and even contribute to gum disease. When left for too long, it will harden into tartar (also called calculus), which is a gum-irritating substance that requires removal by a dental professional.
How to Prevent that Fuzzy Feeling
- Maintain Proper Preventive Oral Care
- Consume a Healthy Diet
- Avoid Sugary Gum & Mints
The best way to keep that fuzzy feeling away is also one of the most simple: practice good oral hygiene! That means flossing your teeth every day, gently brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time with correct technique, and not skipping those twice-a-year dental checkups with our expert team. Doing so will help prevent plaque from accumulating on the surfaces of your teeth and from along your gumline.
Another thing you can do is to consider your dental health when making dietary choices. Eat more foods that promote good oral health like leafy greens, sweet potatoes, carrots, whole grains, cheese, and nuts. And, in general, consume less sugary and starchy foods. Foods high in sugar and carbohydrates make your teeth more susceptible to plaque buildup since they easily become food for bacteria.
Additionally, don’t chew gum or mints that contain sugar, which will increase your risk for fuzzy plaque and tooth decay. Instead, look for sugar-free gum and mints. In fact, chewing sugar-free gum for at least 20 minutes after meals can help prevent decay by stimulating the production of saliva and washing away leftover food particles. However, keep in mind that chewing gum should never substitute for flossing and brushing.
Consult with Us Here at Sohn Dental!
Want more tips to keep plaque at bay? The Sohn Dental team is here to help. Contact our office to ask our team all your dental-related questions or to schedule your next cleaning and checkup.
Contact Us