Dental health is tenuous. Teeth and gums are constantly bombarded by the effects of bacterial plaque. Bad habits and sugary sweet food and drink complete the picture. Routine dental care is necessary to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Preventive dental care begins with diet. Sugar supports the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. The amount of sugar is less important than the frequency of ingestion. Sipping a sugary drink all day, such as baby formula or fruit drink, causes more damage than eating the same amount of sugar in a single dessert. Another issue is that acidic foods and drinks soften enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth. Drinking soda, even sugar-free soda, increases the likelihood of developing tooth decay.
Plaque is a coating of bacteria that stick to teeth. The bacteria consume sugar and release acid causing decay and gum disease. Without bacteria, there is no tooth decay or gum disease. Home care is the removal of plaque on a regular basis. Removing plaque will improve poor dental health.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque. The soft bristles are strong enough to remove plaque without damaging tender gum tissue and marring enamel. Soft bristles are also flexible enough to clean around contours of teeth where firm bristles cannot reach. Choose an oscillating or vibrating electric toothbrush if using a standard toothbrush is difficult or impossible.
Cleaning between teeth is equally important. Floss is the tool of choice. Dental professionals can work with those who are not able to use floss to choose from an assortment of powered and non-powered devices that substitute for traditional floss.
Choose from the plethora of effective anti-microbial toothpastes and mouth rinses to augment mechanical plaque removal. Only use products accepted by the ADA for preventing and reducing gingivitis.
Finally, see your dentist and dental hygienist at least twice a year. He or she will check for decay and gum disease. More importantly, your dentist will recommend improvements to your home care regimen. The dental team can demonstrate proper brushing and flossing technique; and they can recommend adaptive toothbrushes and flossing devices for those who need them. When necessary, the dentist will prescribe stronger mouth rinses and fluoride treatments.
Author: Dr. David Leader
© 2008 Associated Content