Dr Ford Brewer - PrevMed #1 Best Simple Way to Remove Dental Plaque (Avoid Clogged Arteries) - Ford Brewer MD MPH (PrevMed Health)
Jan 22, 2026
Dr. Doug Thompson, a leader at the Wellness Dentistry Network, dives into the crucial link between oral health and systemic issues. He emphasizes the dangers of biofilm and how it contributes to inflammation that can affect arteries. Doug outlines a three-step home care routine for effective plaque removal and discusses the benefits of water flossers and the latest in toothpaste options like nano-hydroxyapatite. He also highlights the importance of salivary testing for personalized treatment plans, urging collaboration between dentists and physicians for better health outcomes.
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Mouth Bacteria Drive Systemic Inflammation
- Oral biofilm (formerly called plaque) harbors bacteria that can trigger systemic inflammation and damage arteries.
- Bleeding gums are a strong sign of elevated heart attack and stroke risk, says Dr. Ford Brewer.
Plaque Is A Complex Biofilm Ecosystem
- Plaque is now understood as a complex biofilm ecosystem with beneficial or pathogenic states.
- A pathogenic biofilm can cause many systemic conditions beyond tooth decay, according to Doug Thompson.
Do Interdental Cleaning First
- Clean between teeth first using floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser before rinsing or brushing.
- Use a mouth rinse only when testing shows pathogenic bacteria, then rinse for about one minute and spit.