What should be done to prevent daily plaque accumulation?

Daily brushing is essential for preventing plaque accumulation as it effectively removes food particles and bacteria that, if left on the teeth, can accumulate into plaque. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste disrupts the biofilm that forms on the surface of the teeth and helps prevent the hardening of plaque into tartar.

While flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, it complements brushing by cleaning between the teeth where a toothbrush may not reach, but it alone does not provide comprehensive cleaning of the tooth surfaces exposed to plaque. Rinsing with mouthwash can help in reducing germs and freshening breath, but it does not remove plaque that has already formed. Lastly, topical fluoride treatments can bolster the strength of the enamel and reduce cavities but do not directly address plaque removal. Therefore, daily brushing serves as the primary defense against plaque buildup on the teeth.