DISCLOSING TABLETS

Disclosing tablets, which are made of a harmless vegetable dye that stains plaque red, are a great way to help your kids — or even yourself — realize how much plaque they’re missing when they brush their teeth. Since the accumulation of plaque is the main cause of cavities and gum disease, knowing exactly how thoroughly you are (or are not) cleaning your teeth is an important step in improving your dental health routine.

Plaque is normally hard to see, but the dye in disclosing tablets makes it much easier. This will help you remove the plaque before it hardens and becomes tartar and causes cavities and gum disease.

Disclosing tablets, which are available through Amazon and major retailers such as Target and Walmart, are best used AFTER brushing and flossing. After you’ve done so, simply chew a disclosing tablet, swish it around your mouth, and rinse with water.

Use a small dental mirror to check your teeth for any signs of dye, especially near the gumline. Brush and floss those areas again until the dye is completely gone and you can be confident that your teeth are plaque-free.