Plaque is on of the most common complaints that often make people take a trip to the dentists. Plaque forms when decay causing bacteria attach to the surface of tooth enamel, forming a sticky film. This can build up and harden around tooth and gum margins. The bacteria living in the plaque release acids that weaken tooth enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. The bacteria and their acids also raise the risk of gum inflammation.

A serious effect of plaque: Reducing dental plaque reduces the levels of bacteria in the mouth which, when you have bleeding gums, can get into the blood and increase the risk of atherosclerosis – the narrowing of arteries. Bacteria feed on sugary and high carbohydrate foods. Low-sugar diets, containing a balance of complex carbohydrate, proteins and oils, are linked to lower levels of dental plaque.

Here’s the lowdown on the best plaque busters that can help keep your mouth cavity-free.

Toothpaste Choose a tooth paste containing ingredients designed to prevent plaque. An anti-bacterial substance called triclosan in toothpastes claims to reduce plaque. Some others contain a plaque-dissolving formula that breaks the bonds attaching plaque to the tooth surface.

Polyphenols Green tea, red wine and cranberry juice contains substance called polyphenols that reduce plaque formation and stop cavity causing bacteria from sticking to teeth. Drinks such as cranberry juice may help wash away up to 50 % more cavity causing bacteria from the mouth. Polyphenols can also help prevent oral bacteria from producing acids that dissolve tooth enamel.

Olive oil Limit plaque formation and strengthen teeth by adding olive oil to salads and cooking. Olive oil contains oleuropein, an anti-bacterial compound that stops ‘gram negative’ bacteria – the type that cause gum disease and bone loss from attaching to teeth. Olive oil also covers the teeth with a film of fat molecules that prevents plaque from forming. Other dietary fats and oils also help to neutralize acids produced by bacterial plaque.