Most of us remain relatively concerned about our dental health. However, it is only when
something goes truly wrong that we start to take things seriously. In this article, we will
inform you of some dental care basics that we believe everybody should know so they
can avoid expensive procedures and maintain excellent oral health!
General Signs of Poor Hygiene
As a start, you should be on the lookout for some general signs of deteriorating oral
health. Some of the most common signs include: decaying or loosening teeth, bleeding
gums, toothache, persistent mouth sores, receding gums, and constant bad breath etc.
Get to a dentist as soon as possible if you notice any of these signs.
What is Plaque, and Why Is It Harmful?
Plaque is your number one enemy. It is actually sticky bacteria that cling to our teeth
whenever we consume anything. These bacteria soon begin releasing acids that
damage the hard white part of our tooth – the enamel, which can cause cavities! To
make matters worse, if you don’t clean plaque thoroughly from your teeth, it turns into a
hard substance called tartar, which is almost impossible to remove through simple
brushing. Tartar can then start messing with your gums and cause gingivitis – a mild
gum disease.
Should I be Worried about Cavities?
The short answer – yes! Cavities are a pretty common problem in the world of dentistry,
but preventable with good oral hygiene. A cavity occurs due to tooth decay. Once the
decay penetrates your tooth enamel, causing a hole in your tooth, it is called a cavity.
A cavity can significantly damage your tooth, causing bleeding, pain and pressure,
among other problems. The more you try to ignore the cavity away, the bigger and
bigger it will become. Hence, it is best to head to a dentist if you feel something wrong
with your teeth.
Some warning signs of a cavity are as follows;
Toothache while eating
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Dark area on a tooth or a visible hole
Sudden pain
Warning Signs of Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an early-stage gum disease. It is caused by bacteria and plaque that settle
on your teeth and eventually cause an infection. You need to be wary of gingivitis
because it can turn into something more serious called periodontitis.
The thing is whereas both gingivitis and periodontitis are treatable; the damage from
periodontitis is irreversible. Hence, it is wiser to keep an eye out for signs of gingivitis,
so you can treat the disease in its infancy.
Following are some common signs of Gingivitis;
Bad breath
Red or puffy gums
Bleeding through the gums, especially when brushing
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
What are the Dental Care Basics?
A great way to maintain impeccable oral hygiene is by following the advice we have
compiled below. It will help prevent many dental problems!
Proper and Effective Brushing
Brushing is key. According to the American Dental Association, you should brush for
two minutes, twice a day with a softer toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
Floss!
Flossing is crucial for maintaining excellent dental hygiene. You should floss at least
once a day, and not just when you feel something stuck between the teeth. Flossing is
known to bolster gum strength and helps prevent dental problems.
Use a Good Mouthwash
Consider rinsing your mouth with a good mouthwash every now and then. Many
dentists recommend daily use of mouthwash to keep away harmful bacteria. It is
particularly helpful for children and older persons, where brushing may not be the go-to
solution.
Consume Healthy Foods
Being mindful of what you consume contributes to your dental well-being. Eating
crunchy fruits and veggies is great for your teeth, especially at a younger age.
Moreover, avoiding acidic foods and limiting your intake of sugar can greatly protect
your teeth from unnecessary harm.
Drink Lots of Water!
Drinking water naturally cleanses your mouth, especially when you’ve had something
sweet or acidic to eat or drink. It helps keep your mouth hydrated, and maintains an
ideal oral environment, neutralizing the effects of acidic foods.
No to Smoking
Smoking damages your teeth and gums. Not only does it stain and discolor your teeth,
but can cause gum disease to develop as well. If you are serious about your oral and
overall physical well-being, then it is in your best interest to quit smoking!
Irregularities and Routine Dental Checkups
Another key step to maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is to check your mouth for any
kind of irregularities. In case you do find something odd, bring it up with your dentist.
There is no alternative to a routine dental checkup. You should get on every 6 months
at least.