Understanding your charts
Your dashboard shows your bleeding and plaque scores over time. Here you will find out what those scores mean and how to improve them.
What is the bleeding score?
The bleeding score shows what percentage of your gum tissue bleeds when your dentist or dental hygienist gently probes it during the measurement. A score of 40% means that 4 out of 10 measurement points bled.
Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation. The gum tissue is reacting to bacteria in plaque that has accumulated between the teeth — in places your toothbrush cannot easily reach.
Do your gums also bleed when you brush at home?
That is the same signal. Bleeding means there is inflammation. It is not a reason to brush more carefully or stop using interdental brushes — quite the opposite: keeping going helps the gums recover.
What is the plaque score?
The plaque score shows what percentage of your tooth surfaces have plaque at the time of measurement. Plaque is a film of bacteria that grows on your teeth. When you brush, you remove this film.
A high plaque score does not mean you are lazy about brushing — it can also mean you are missing hard-to-reach areas. An electric toothbrush and the right technique can make a big difference.
Manual vs electric brushing
Manual toothbrush: Works well with the right technique. You need to make circular motions yourself and reach all surfaces.
Electric toothbrush: Makes thousands of movements per minute. You just need to guide it along your teeth. Usually more effective — the plaque score drops by an average of 21% in three months compared with manual brushing.
The connection between the two scores
Bleeding and plaque are closely linked — but they each tell a slightly different story:
Bleeding score falls → you are cleaning between your teeth more effectively. This responds strongly to daily use of interdental brushes, picks or floss.
Plaque score falls → your tooth brushing has become more effective. This responds to better technique or switching to an electric toothbrush.
Both scores fall → you are looking after your mouth fully: good brushing and cleaning between the teeth. That is the goal.
Where should you aim?
Excellent — below 20%
Your gums are healthy. Keep it up!
Good progress — 20% to 40%
You are on the right track. Keep going and the score will drop further.
Room for improvement — 50% to 60%
There is still scope for improvement. Consider which step is achievable for you.
Attention needed — 70% and above
Discuss this with your dental hygienist or dentist.
What can you do yourself?
Brush twice a day, for 2 minutes
Morning and evening. Left and right, inside and outside, top and bottom.
Use interdental brushes, picks or floss every day
Ideally in the evening, after brushing. This is the most powerful way to lower your bleeding score.
Consider an electric toothbrush
If your plaque score stays high, this can be a major step forward.
Follow your charts
Seeing improvement? You are doing well. No improvement? Ask your dentist for guidance.
Questions about your charts?
Every mouth is different. This explanation provides general information, but your personal situation may vary. Do you see something in your charts you don't understand? Contact your dentist or dental hygienist — they can look at your specific situation and explain what you can best do to improve your oral health.
mijngebit.info is not a medical device. If you have concerns: consult your dentist.