The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning and checkup. The focus of your daily oral hygiene is the prevention of cavities and periodontal disease, two conditions that are often directly related.
Cavities are the destruction of the enamel of the teeth caused by bacteria that work to get their meal fueled from the carbohydrates you eat. Both bacteria and their meal deliver acids that break down the enamel. Protecting your teeth is a lifelong task since the acids that work to break down the enamel can tend to erode the layer of protective minerals that are layered on the teeth.
Plaque is a sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth. Dentists date the accumulation of plaque on the surfaces of the teeth as early as the fifth or sixth day of life. On average, the first string of teeth formed by a baby is experiencing typical plaque build-up. As the child reaches the third and fourth grade, the inevitability of plaque buildup sets in, often carrying the Forward Molars and the premolars on the bottom and top of the mouth, respectively. Also, because of the continuous presence of plaque, the baby teeth are strengthened and tend to remain firmly in their areas of residence from the time they are first set. When the baby teeth experience trauma or are lost too soon orthodontic challenges including loss of position can occur.
Cavities can be addressed in different ways. With professional cleanings, the dentist will remove the plaque and tartar that have built up in the mouth. This will be followed by thorough flossing and rinsing. These cleanings are important to the overall health of your mouth. If allowed to remain, the plaque can harden into tartar, which is a big step for your teeth. A dentist can also give you tips and suggestions on proper oral care to avoid the necessity of professional cleanings.
There are also a variety of foods that can help promote good oral health. Strawberries have a natural astringent to clean teeth and strengthen gums. Additionally, broccoli and apples are both loaded with nutrients that reduce bacteria and encourage the production of saliva. The mouth absorbs bacteria and other materials when eating, so it is important to drink water often to keep the mouth moist. Everyone likes to hear soothing music while eating, so if your dentist reviews that your mouth is dry because of poor eating habits, then it would be wise to listen to your tidy little music drawer.
Going to the dentist is not only a procedure to keep your smile bright and healthy, but also to educate you and help you take better care of your mouth. Professionals in the dental profession are there to answer any questions and teach proper dental care. There is no such thing as too often or too much dental care.