Proper dental care is essential to prevent cavities and gum disease. By brushing and flossing correctly, you can avoid the buildup of plaque—a transparent layer of bacteria that clings to your teeth. After meals, these bacteria convert sugar into acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Plaque is also responsible for gingivitis, a gum disease causing redness, swelling, and soreness.
How to Remove Plaque?
To keep cavities at bay, it’s crucial to remove plaque. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once a day. Brushing not only cleans your teeth but also stimulates your gums, reducing the risk of gum disease. For optimal oral health, use a fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities.
Understanding Tartar
Tartar is hardened plaque that is more damaging and difficult to remove. Using anti-tartar toothpaste and mouthwash can help slow its formation, especially when you focus on brushing teeth near the salivary glands.
Sensitive Teeth?
If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure, consider using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. However, consult your dentist to rule out any underlying issues like cavities or nerve problems.
The Right Way to Brush
Dentists recommend brushing for at least 2 minutes, twice a day. Here’s how to do it right:
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline.
- Use short, gentle strokes about one tooth wide to avoid harming your gums.
- Brush all surfaces of your teeth and gently brush your tongue.
- To ensure you brush for a full 2 minutes, use a timer or play a song. Some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers.
Is Flossing Necessary?
Yes, brushing alone can’t remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and near the gumline. Floss daily using a careful back-and-forth motion to avoid injuring your gums. Curve the floss around each tooth in a «C» shape to clean it thoroughly.
Teeth Whitening
Whitening toothpastes can be safe if they also contain fluoride and fight plaque and tartar. However, most teens don’t need whitening since teeth usually yellow with age. If you’re considering whitening, consult your dentist first to avoid gum irritation or tooth sensitivity.
Does Diet Affect Your Teeth?
Sugar is a primary culprit in tooth decay, but how and when you consume it also matters. Eating sugary foods or drinking sodas throughout the day feeds bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of cavities. Foods with sugar or starch are less harmful when consumed with a meal, as saliva production increases during eating, helping to wash away sugars and bacteria. To protect your teeth:
- Eat carbs with a meal.
- Rinse your mouth or chew sugarless gum if brushing isn’t possible after eating.
- Avoid sugary snacks between meals.
- Choose non-sugary snacks like cheese, veggies, or yogurt.
When to See the Dentist?
Regular dental visits every 6 months help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. A typical visit includes:
- Reviewing your dental and medical history
- A dental exam
- Professional cleaning
The dentist examines your teeth, gums, and jaw using mirrors and probes to detect plaque, decay, or gum disease. X-rays may be taken to check for hidden issues like tooth decay or abscesses.
A dental hygienist usually performs the cleaning, removing plaque and tartar, polishing the teeth, and applying fluoride treatments to prevent decay. If cavities or other issues are detected, the dentist will discuss treatment options.
In addition to routine visits, see your dentist if you experience any discomfort or problems with your teeth, gums, or jaw.