How does mouthwash help with plaque?

Antibacterial mouthwash, like , can help kill plaque-causing bacteria and reach areas brushing may miss, helping reduce buildup and prevent tartar formation.

Is brushing and flossing enough to remove plaque?

Brushing and flossing remove most plaque, but they may miss hard-to-reach areas. Adding an antiseptic mouthwash, like , helps provide more complete coverage and improve plaque control.4

What is the difference between plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms daily on teeth. Tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.

Why do I still have plaque if I brush every day?

Plaque can still build up if brushing misses certain areas, isn’t done long enough, or isn’t paired with flossing and rinsing with a mouthwash. Plaque forms continuously, so consistent, complete care is key.1

Why are plaque and tartar harmful?

Both contain bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum inflammation, and gum disease. Tartar also creates a rough surface that makes it easier for more plaque to build up.

Plaque vs Tartar: Causes, Prevention, & Treatment

What is plaque and why does buildup matter?

Dental plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that continually forms on the surface of your teeth and is a normal part of oral health.¹ Even with regular brushing and flossing, some plaque can remain in hard-to-reach areas. And when it isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar.

Plaque and tartar buildup are leading contributors to gingivitis, an early and reversible form of gum disease. If plaque and gingivitis aren’t managed, they may increase the risk of periodontitis, a more serious condition that can affect gums and supporting bone.

Because plaque forms continuously, consistent plaque control plays an important role in helping maintain healthy gums over time.²

How plaque turns into tartar (and progresses over time)

Plaque buildup can typically progress in stages if it isn’t consistently removed.^2,3

teps on How plaque turns into tartar - Healthy gums Icon

1. Healthy gums

Clean, firm, and well cared for

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2. Plaque

Forms when bacteria aren’t fully removed

Steps on How plaque turns into tartar - Tartar Icon

3. Tartar

Develops when plaque hardens on teeth

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4. Gingivitis

Gums become red, swollen, or irritated

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5. Periodontitis

Ongoing inflammation may lead to infection and tissue damage

Why add mouthwash to brushing and flossing?

New science shows adding LISTERINE® Antiseptic can deliver up to 5x more cleaning power*²

Brushing and flossing are essential steps, but adding an antiseptic mouthwash, like LISTERINE® COOL MINT® Antiseptic, helps enhance your routine. It can help you clean deeper than brushing and flossing alone⁴ while helping fight plaque and prevent tartar buildup and killing 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis.

*vs brushing and flossing alone. When used as directed.

3 simple steps to help prevent plaque buildup

A cleaner mouth doesn’t require a complicated routine, just a consistent and complete one. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with LISTERINE® Antiseptic daily helps reach more areas of the mouth, including places brushing and flossing may miss, and supports better plaque control.

1. Manage plaque between brushings

Plaque forms when bacteria in your mouth interact with sugars and starches from food and drinks. To help limit buildup, reduce sugary and starchy foods.¹ When brushing isn’t possible after eating, try chewing sugarless gum to help stimulate saliva and wash away food particles.⁵

2. Brush and floss every day

Daily brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from tooth surfaces and along the gumline. These habits are the foundation of good oral care and play an important role in keeping teeth and gums healthy.

3. Complete your routine with an antiseptic mouthwash

Brushing and flossing are essential, but some plaque-causing germs can remain in hard-to-reach areas. Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing, like LISTERINE® ULTRACLEAN® Intense Antiseptic Mouthwash, helps clean what’s left behind, making your routine more effective.