We’re always on the lookout for the latest in dentistry, and this newish entry to the world of burgeoning oral health products caught our eye. Developed by an orthodontist, it is a patented disclosing toothpaste (Plaque HD) which is designed to help patients with braces to brush better.
One of the greatest challenges when it comes to braces (especially the traditional metal 
ones) is brushing. Food and plaque tends to build up very easily, causing significant gingivitis to the point where the gums can grow over the braces and cover one’s teeth completely. This can also lead to extremely significant cavities, the cost of repair approaching the cost of the braces themselves. We’re talking thousands of dollars. Gulp!
But how does one know that you are doing an adequate job? For our younger patients who don’t brush well, we give out disclosing tablets (there are also mouth rinses). These tablets, which are chewed after an initial round of brushing, get incorporated into plaque that hasn’t been brushed off, turning these areas pink. Hence, one can actually see the areas that are being missed, and can go back and brush the pink off. Aside from a great educational tool, it is great fun for the kids to see their teeth turn pink.
Plaque HD incorporates this disclosing agent in their fluoride cavity preventing toothpaste. Instead of pink, it turns teeth green in areas that haven’t been brushed well (ie. plaque is accumulating) and serves as a visual cue for patients to go back and brush in those areas. The benefit of this toothpaste is that it’s a one step process – simply brush, look for green areas and then brush again until removed.
This is a fabulous idea that is a long time coming. It’s applications are not limited only to patients with braces but can be used by anybody who brushes poorly. It is a vast improvement from the traditional disclosing tablet route which is more labor intensive, messy and takes more time. The toothpaste retails for $21 (direct to consumer) which may seem like a lot, but keep in mind that even one small white composite filling costs significantly more. Think of the toothpaste as an investment for not only a beautiful smile, but a healthy one. We think this is a win-win for all.
dentistryforchildren.com 
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