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The primary goal of home plaque control is to limit or reduce the amount of plaque on the teeth (Perry 2006). This in turn should decrease the level of gingival inflammation and, ultimately, of periodontal disease. However, it will not eliminate the need for professional cleanings (Hale 2003).

It is important to note that supragingival plaque and calculus has little to no effect on periodontal disease. It is the plaque at and below the gingival margin that creates inflammation and initiates periodontal disease (Harvey and Emily 1993; Westfelt et al. 1998; Niemiec 2008). Therefore, controlling marginal and subgingival plaque is the key to maintaining periodontal health. Keep this in mind when reviewing various home care options. Information on the suitability of different methods of plaque control is covered later.

Brushing is the most effective means of mechanically removing plaque (Hale 2003). Chew‐based products may be effective, but only if properly formulated. However, oral sprays, rinses, and water additives are in this authors opinion an insufficient means of plaque control, due to the tenacity with which plaque adheres to the teeth and the high resistance of the plaque biofilm to antiseptics (reported to be up to 500 000 times that of singular bacteria: Williams 1995; Quirynen et al. 2006).