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How do you effectively prevent plaque/tartar forming on your teeth? (mander.xyz)

submitted 11 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

77 comments fedilink hide all child comments

My teeth are in good health and I take good care of them, yet I always get this plaque buildup no matter what I try.

I've tried different brushes, toothpastes, and flossing methods to no avail. Mouthwash is too harsh on my mouth and peels my skin off so I avoid that.

I haven't tried waterpicks or electric brushes yet. Did you? Did they work for you? Have you succeeded in preventing plaque and if so, how???

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[–] [email protected] 4 points 11 months ago (1 children)

I suspect it may be that I suck at flossing, and I've tried different methods as well as those disposable toothpick things. Will keep the water one in mind, cheers

[–] [email protected] 5 points 11 months ago (1 children)

Same. I'm terrible at flossing. I have my tonsils and my wisdom teeth. Reaching toward the back is a major pain for me and that's why I decided to try water flossing. It's so much easier for me to do every day. I just brush and floss each night after I shower. Flossing makes a much bigger impact on bad breath than most people realize. I just started flossing regularly about four months ago, and I've had a dentist appointment in between. For the first time in my 31 years, getting flossed at the dentist did not leave me a bloody, painful mess. It felt nice.

I mentioned that I have my tonsils because I get tonsil stones. While I probably should talk to an ENT about tonsillectomy, I live in America. What I can recommend, if you get them and you can't or don't want to go through surgery, is to set your water flosser to the absolute gentlest setting, and aim that jet at your tonsils every once in a while. Obviously, you don't want to make them bleed. But if you've ever spit out a tonsil stone, take a whiff. That may actually explain a lot. The fuckers smell absolutely rancid. My dentist tells me even a small one once every 4-6 weeks is abnormal.

Best of luck, bud. I hope this helps.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 11 months ago

Thanks for sharing! I don't get the stones, though I did have a couple when I was still a kid and you are right about the smell. I'm sorry your tonsils are giving you so much trouble. Definitely will keep in mind the water floss