1. If using a disclosing product,
follow the instructions on the package. If using food coloring,
you can put two drops of blue or green food coloring in
two teaspoons of water and then swish this solution around
your mouth. (Although the stain is temporary and can be
safely used, you will probably want to avoid staining your
lips or clothing.)
2. Spit out the contents of
your mouth and rinse with water.
3. Examine your teeth with a
mirror in good light. The color you see shows where plaque
is present. Note that the color is darkest near the edge
of the gums, the area in which the plaque is thickest.
4. Clean your teeth by brushing
and flossing, using the method your dentist or dental hygienist
has recommended.
5. Check by staining again.
If the plaque has been removed completely, no color will
remain on the teeth. (The color on your tongue and gums
will disappear in a few hours.)
