What are plaque disclosing tablets and should you use them before or after you brush your teeth?

Thanks, Stacy

Dear Stacy,

Plaque disclosing tablets are used after tooth brushing and flossing. Plaque disclosing products can come in a tablet form or a liquid. They are made with a harmless vegetable dye that turns your teeth red to show where plaque is left behind. After cleaning your teeth simply chew on a tablet and swish it around in your mouth for about a minute. Afterwards, rinse with water then look in your mouth to see if there is any red coloration around your teeth, if so this is where plaque was left behind and to show you where you’re missing with your tooth brush or dental floss. Plaque disclosing tablets help identify plaque and will help you improve your overall oral hygiene. These products are great for people of all ages, especially young children and those with braces. Ask your dentist if they carry these products at their dental office for you to purchase. If not, there are many sites on the internet that sell these products to help you improve your dental hygiene.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.