Plaque is hard to see because it’s whitish, like your teeth. A home plaque identification test stains it so you can see exactly where your brushing and flossing fall short. MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, explains plaque is the major cause of tooth decay and gum disease (gingivitis). This guide covers how to use these tests.
What plaque is
MedlinePlus describes plaque as a soft, sticky substance that collects around and between teeth. Plaque left on teeth can cause decay or make gums bleed easily and become red or swollen. See tooth decay, bleeding gums and signs of gum disease.
Two ways to test
Disclosing tablets
- Brush and floss thoroughly first.
- Chew one tablet thoroughly, moving the saliva and dye over your teeth and gums for about 30 seconds.
- Rinse with water.
- Examine your teeth. Red-stained areas are plaque. A small dental mirror helps you check all areas.
Plaque light
- Swirl a special fluorescent solution around your mouth.
- Rinse gently with water.
- Shine an ultraviolet plaque light into your mouth. Plaque glows bright yellow-orange.
MedlinePlus says the advantage of the light method is that it leaves no red stains.
Reading your results
- Normal: no plaque or food debris is seen.
- Abnormal: tablets stain plaque dark red. The light solution colors it bright orange-yellow.
Colored areas show where brushing and flossing weren’t enough. MedlinePlus says to brush those areas again to remove the stained plaque.
Using your results
Note where the color shows up and give those areas more attention in your routine. See how to brush your teeth and flossing and interdental cleaning. If you wear braces, see cleaning teeth with braces.
What it feels like and risks
Your mouth may feel slightly dry after the dye. MedlinePlus says there are no risks. Tablets may temporarily tint your lips and cheeks pink and color your mouth and tongue red, so dentists suggest using them at night so the color fades by morning.
Why it helps
The test identifies missed plaque and can motivate you to improve your brushing and flossing. In the office, MedlinePlus notes dentists and hygienists can usually detect plaque with a thorough exam using dental tools. Ask at your next cleaning which areas you tend to miss.
Frequently asked questions
Are disclosing tablets safe?
MedlinePlus says there are no risks, though they temporarily stain the mouth.
When should I use them?
After brushing and flossing. Dentists suggest nighttime so the color is gone by morning.
Sources
By the Dentist Review Editorial Team.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your own situation. See our disclaimer.
Featured image: “A Brief Look At The History Of Toothbrushes And Toothpastes (50570386291)” by Stewart Shearer from Oregon, USA, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY-SA 2.0. Resized and compressed for the web.
Our guides are written and reviewed by the Dentist Review editorial team. We research each topic using public, authoritative sources such as the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NIDCR), the American Dental Association (ADA) and CMS, and we update guides when guidance changes. Guides are for general information only and are not dental or medical advice; please read our disclaimer and learn more about us.