How to avoid Dentist
Taking good care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining overall good health. Poor oral health is significantly associated with major chronic diseases and can cause disability and contribute to low self-esteem. All of you know, much is said about how to take care of teeth already. But after all, do we really know how to take care of our teeth?And what to avoid ? Discover it all in this article.
Why are my Teeth so Important ?
Your teeth vary in shape and size depending on where they are in your mouth. These differences allow the teeth to do many different jobs. Teeth help us to chew and digest food. They help us to talk, and to pronounce different sounds clearly. Finally, teeth help to give our face its shape. A healthy smile can be a great asset; and because this is so important, it makes sense to give your teeth the best care possible. The tooth The tooth is hard and whitish element which comprises of: • Enamel: hard outer layer of the tooth. If you lack good oral hygene, this layer can be damaged. • Dentin: Layer coming after the enamel. • Pulp: the soft layer which is located just after the dentin and is highly vascularized by blood vessels. • Cementum: layer covering the root;. • Alveolar bone: bone holding the tooth. It is a mineralized structure and its function is to protect and reserve the blood and lymphatic vessels. • Blood vessels. • Nerve.
What is Good Oral Hygiene ?
A good oral hygiene is to maintain the teeth, mouth and gums clean and healthy, preventing cavities, tartar, gingivitis , periodontitis, halitosis (bad breath) and loss of teeth. A proper and regular cleaning of teeth and mouth prevents formation of bacterial plaque which is the major cause of dental problems. Additionally, it maintains the beautiful smile and fresh breath. For healthy teeth and gums, be sure to brush and floss daily and have regular dental checkups What Are the Signs of Poor Oral Hygiene? • Gums that bleed or hurt when brushing your teeth or flossing • Constant Halitosis • Brown or yellow deposits on the teeth
What can go Wrong ?
Tooth decay can be painful and lead to fillings, crowns or inlays. If tooth decay is not treated, the nerve of the tooth can become infected and die, causing an abscess. This may then need root canal treatment or even for the tooth to be removed. It is very important that you keep up a good routine at home to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Gum disease is common and, if left untreated, may lead to bone loss around the teeth. In some cases it may lead to loose teeth and teeth being lost. Gum disease is preventable. It can be treated and kept under control with regular cleaning sessions and check-ups, preventing further problems. If teeth are lost, it may be necessary to fill the gaps with bridges, dentures or implants. Dental caries Dental caries is a lesion, with possible loss of enamel and affects the mineralized tissues. It does not have any symptoms at the beginning but as it advances, the pain becomes unbearable. The occurrence of caries is linked to the acidification caused by demineralization of the mouth. Symptoms • Discoloration of the tooth. • Acute toothache, sometimes persistent, which can affect the entire region around the teeth or only the area of the tooth. To avoid this type of disease you need to adopt some preventative measures, such as: • Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice. Always brush your teeth at bedtime. • Use dental floss every day before washing • Visit your dentist regularly (Once in 6 month is enough) • Have a good diet • Avoid smoking
How do I Keep my teeth and gums healthy ?
It is easy to get your mouth clean and healthy, and keep it that way. A simple routine can help prevent most dental problems: • brushing your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste • cleaning between the teeth with ‘interdental' brushes or floss at least once a day • good eating habits - having sugary foods and drinks less often, and • regular dental check-ups. Although most people brush regularly, many don't clean between their teeth and some people don't have regular dental check-ups. A few small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in the long term. Your dental team can remove any build-up on your teeth and treat any gum disease that has already appeared. But daily dental care is up to you, and the main weapons are the toothbrush, toothpaste and interdental cleaning (cleaning between your teeth). Tooth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity is caused by wear of the tooth or gum . This oral disease can be caused by exposure of the roots due to recession of the gums. Symptoms • Sensation of pain when eating hot and cold foods. Tooth sensitivity is treated in several ways. Use a fluoride-enriched gel ortoothpaste for sensitive teeth. Learn the proper brushing of the teeth because a bad brushing may cause more wear on the tooth and thus increase the sensitivity. Consult your dentist in this matter. Tartar Tartar is a sort of hardened dental plaque. The minerals from saliva accumulate on the plaque on teeth is the cause of tartar. Tartar, besides being an oral health problem, is also an aesthetic problem due to the appearance that it causes. Usually forms above or along the gumline. The most common symptom is a yellowish / brownish color of teeth. To prevent tartar, you should do a proper brushing of teeth, use dental floss. Consult a dental specialist to remove tartar. Do not attempt to remove yourself without their help or you may worsen your situation. Pain when chewing, and tenderness or pain in the teeth. If you have any of these symptoms consult your dentist . These may be signs of decay or a more serious problem. When the remains of food and drink are not well cleaned from teeth, they serve as food for the bacteria responsible for tooth decay . The plaque begins to develop 20 minutes after we eat, so it is important to wash immediately after the main meals. A proper and frequent cleaning helps prevent tooth decay. Also avoid sweets as much as you can. What is plaque? Plaque is a thin, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. How can plaque cause decay? When you eat foods containing sugars and starches, the bacteria in plaque produce acids, which attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with your teeth. After constant acid attack, the tooth enamel breaks down forming a hole or cavity. How can plaque cause gum disease? If plaque is not removed by brushing, it can harden into something called ‘calculus' - another name for it is 'tartar'. As calculus forms near the gumline, the plaque underneath releases harmful poisons causing the gums to become irritated and inflamed. The gums start to pull away from the teeth and the gaps become infected. If gum disease is not treated promptly, the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed, and healthy teeth can become loose and fall out. Severe gum disease can lead to teeth falling out and needing to be replaced. Dental caries or cavities, more commonly known as tooth decay, are caused by a breakdown of the tooth enamel Gum Disease This disease is an inflammation of the gums that can affect the alveolar bone , putting at risk the sustainability of the tooth . Gum disease advances in two stages: The initial phase is reversible and curable. Inflammation is caused by the growth of plaque in the space between the tooth and gum. The main symptom is the occurrence of bleeding during the tooth brushing. The Periodontitis is the second phase which is irreversible. The alveolar bone is completely affected, forming sheets gums containing food debris and plaque. Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontitis • Gums with a reddish tone and swollen • Bleeding during brushing • Teeth may look longer due to recession of the gums • Space between the teeth • Formation of pus between the teeth and gums • Bad breath and bad taste in the mouth constantly.
Learn some tips for treating swollen gums, bleeding gums, sore gums or gingivitis.
If blood comes out of the gums while brushing your teeth, it is more likely that you have a gum inflammation or gingivitis. If not treated properly, can lead to more serious gum disease, as they spread fast. Can also cause abscesses, bad breath or tooth decay. 1. If you have pain or swelling in the gums, rinse your mouth with salt water or hydrogen peroxide (1 teaspoon in a glass of water). Both help kill bacteria and relieve pain. 2. Place a bag of ice on the face, in the place where you have pain. As everyone knows, the ice helps reduce swelling and also help to numb the area. 3. More severe cases may be treated with clove oil. 4. Massage The Affected Area :In order to improve the circulation in the gums and accelerate the healing process, you can do a little massage on the affected area, pressing them lightly with your thumb and forefinger. 5. You can also use coconut oil to produce a soothing effect on the gums. 6. You can also purchase a gum stimulator in order to massage the gums more effectively. 7. An electric toothbrush is very effective solution for cleaning and massaging of the gums. Both reach places that traditional brushes fail to reach. 8. Gingivitis can be treated with regular mouthwash. However, if your gums show a different aspect or start to bleed regularly, it is important to visit a dentist. Here are 12 easy tips to take good care of your teeth. Do it Yourself. Do it Today 1. Brush teeth two or three times a day (for about two minutes) and use the dental floss daily 2. Use products that contain fluoride, because they protect and strengthen teeth 3. Select a non abrasive paste and use in small amount 4. Change your toothbrush every two to three months and prefer the soft ones 5. Avoid brushing your teeth after consuming foods or drinks that contains citric acid (lemon orange etc) because the teeth are most vulnerable at that time 6. Pay attention to the brushing technique : Place the brush at a 45 degree angle in reference to the gums and make movements back and forth or circular 7. Do not forget to clean the tongue . The bacteria that settle on the tongue are the main causes of bad breath . If you use the brush to do it carefully. You can opt for a lingual sanitizer 8. The use of antiseptics should be recommended by the dentist. Avoid those that contain alcohol 9. Go to the dentist regularly: at least every six months to ensure proper oral hygiene 10. Opt for products suitable for your case: tooth sensitivity, stained teeth, gum problems, etc. 11. After cleaning teeth, do not eat or drink for about 30 minutes 12. Never go to sleep without taking care of your teeth. Sometimes a tooth can look healthy, but your dental team will be able to see from an X-ray whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the root, or any bone loss around the tooth.
Why is Brushing Important?
Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth is important because it removes plaque. If the plaque isn't removed, it continues to build up, feeding on the bits of food left behind and causing tooth decay and gum disease.
Do electric toothbrushes clean better?
Tests have shown that power toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque. Those with heads that rotate in both directions ('oscillating' heads) are the most effective. Everyone can use a power brush. They are particularly useful for people with limited movement of the arm or hand, such as disabled or elderly people, who often find that using a normal toothbrush does not allow them to clean thoroughly. Power brushes can also be better for children as they may be more likely to brush regularly because of the novelty of using a power brush. Discuss the idea with your dental team to find out if you would benefit from using a power brush How do electric toothbrushes work?
A power brush has an oscillating rotating or vibrating head, which provides a large amount of cleaning action with very little movement needed from the user, although you do need to position the brush correctly.
Brushing Technique
For an effective cleaning of the teeth, brush them twice a day for at least 2 minutes. Most adults do not even come close to this time. Start by brushing the inner and outer surfaces of the posterior teeth by placing the brush at a 45 ° position towards the gums and moving it horizontally.
In front teeth, replace the horizontal movement by a vertical movement from the gums to the teeth with the tip of the brush several times with no effort.Then clean the chewing surfaces of the back teeth by placing the brush horizontally and moving it in small circles. Do not forget to go through the gumline gently so as not to hurt.
Finally, brush the surface of the tongue, from the base to the tip, to remove food debris and prevent bad breath. You can even lightly brush the palate for a greater sense of freshness.
Always brush your teeth and other mouth parts gently and without using much pressure.Excessive force can harm the gums and still can contribute to the erosion of enamel. Brushing removes plaque and bits of food from the inner, outer and biting surfaces of your teeth
How often should I change my toothbrush?
Worn-out toothbrushes cannot clean your teeth properly and may damage your gums. It is important to change your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner if the filaments become worn. When bristles become splayed, they do not clean properly.
Type of Brush
A soft brush is ideal for good brushing. It may seem that a stiffer brush is more effective in removing food debris and cleans the teeth better, but it is not always so. For effective cleaning it is necessary to use the correct technique. Too stiff brush will only contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel which may cause acute pain in the future.
Besides being soft, brush should have a small head to reach all areas of the mouth. The electric toothbrush is a good choice because it has a small head and is especially suitable for people with less agility hands.
Type of Toothpaste .
There is a wide variety of products for fighting cavities, tartar or tooth sensitivity and will be better to follow the recommendation of a professional. With regard to oral health is important to focus on quality.
What sort of toothpaste should I use?
As well as regular family toothpastes, there are many specialised toothpastes. These include tartar control for people who get tartar build-up, and a choice of toothpastes for people with sensitive teeth. ‘Total care' toothpastes include ingredients to help fight gum disease, freshen breath and reduce plaque build-up. ‘Whitening' toothpastes are good at removing staining to help restore the natural colour of your teeth, but are not strong enough to change the natural shade of the teeth.
Some children's toothpastes only have about half the fluoride that adult toothpastes have. They only give limited protection for the teeth. If your children are under 7 you should supervise them when they brush their teeth. Encourage them not to swallow the toothpaste and to just spit, not rinse, after brushing.
To have a clean and healthy mouth you need to use the correct dental-care products. Ask your dental team to tell you what choices there are and to give their recommendations.
How much toothpaste should I use?
You do not need to cover the head of your brush in toothpaste. A pea-sized amount is enough. Children should use a pea-sized smear of toothpaste.
Mouthwash
The use of a mouthwash is not essential to routine brushing. However, if you want to use it should be aware of its contents and whether it meets the needs of your oral health. Beware of mouthwashes contain alcohol, these can make gums irritating and are not recommended to share with children.
Dental Floss
Flossing helps in removing plaque and prevents bad breath. However, dental floss is an additional technique of cleaning the teeth and never replaces brushing.
How should I clean between my teeth?
You can clean between your teeth with an ‘interdental’ brush or dental floss. Dental tape is thicker than floss and many people find it easier to use. Cleaning in between your teeth removes plaque and bits of food from between your teeth and under your gumline – areas a toothbrush can't reach. You should clean between your teeth at least once a day. Your dental team can show you proper interdental cleaning techniques. The following suggestions may help with flossing:
1. Break off about 45 centimetres (18 inches) of floss, and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the other hand. As you use the floss, you will take up the used section with this finger.
2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, with about an inch of floss between them, leaving no slack. Use a gentle 'rocking' motion to guide the floss between your teeth. Do not jerk the floss or snap the floss into the gums.
3. When the floss reaches your gumline, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth until you feel resistance.
4. Hold the floss against the tooth. Gently scrape the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum. Repeat on the other side of the gap, along the side of the next tooth.
5. Don't forget the back of your last tooth.
When flossing, keep to a regular pattern. Start at the top and work from left to right, then move to the bottom and again work from the left to right. This way you're less likely to miss any teeth. At first it also helps to look in the mirror. It is also very important to clean around the edges of any crowns, bridges or implants. This can be difficult to do effectively using traditional floss and there are now specialised flosses to do the job thoroughly. Ask your dental team which product to use and how to use it properly.
Should my gums bleed when I clean in between my teeth?
Your gums may bleed or be sore for the first few days that you clean between your teeth. This should stop once the plaque is broken up and the health of your mouth has improved. If the bleeding does not stop, tell your dental team. It may be that you are not cleaning correctly, or that your teeth and gums need a more thorough clean by your dental team.
Teeth Whitening
The color of the teeth is a factor that everyone is concerned. Sometimes that you cannot perform the task of tooth whitening with your effort and time. When this is the case, you should always have an expert to do the work for you Some dentists use conventional treatments to whiten teeth, that is, with the use of whitening trays. However, with the onset of different technologies, the laser whitening of teeth is now available. First the dentist will examine your situation and then apply the whitening agent on your teeth. Then allow the whitening agent to set itself in your teeth, from there they use the laser to work on the process. The laser light allows a better uptake of dental bleaching on the affected areas.
The only drawback we can see with the aid of a dentist for teeth whitening, is the fact that it is more expensive. However, one cannot ignore the fact that the process is effective knowing that an expert performs the task very carefully.
You can choose to depend on some home remedies. The efficiency is lower than professional whitening, but it is more economical. The list below contains some of the many methods of home bleaching.
1. Fruits and vegetables: Foods such as apples, pears, strawberries, celery and carrots help a lot in making your smile whiter. The saliva in contact with these foods produces a reaction, in fact,it is able to remove several bacteria from the mouth. Rubbing the teeth with strawberries daily, for example, will allow us to remove al``l the stains . Similarly, wipe the teeth with the inner part of the orange peel. This helps in dental bleaching.
2. Water: Gargle 30 seconds after meals help prevent stains.
3. Eat dark green vegetables: These vegetables, in fact, contain a mineral compound that produces a film that covers the teeth and protects against stains.
4. Do not drink carbonated beverages: The many cans of carbonated soft drinks on the market are not loyal allies for teeth whitening. The fatty content such as phosphoric, citric, malic and tartaric acid strip the enamel. at least use a straw to drink these. .
Can my diet help?
Many people think that it is a high level of sugar in your diet that causes decay, but this is not true. It is how often you have sugar in your diet, not the amount, that causes problems. It takes up to an hour for your mouth to cancel out the acid caused by eating and drinking sugar. During this time your teeth are under attack from this acid. It is therefore important to limit the number of attacks by having sugary foods and drinks just at mealtimes. Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking water after meals or snacks can also help to cancel out the acid more quickly.
As well as causing decay, sugary fizzy drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks, and wine can be acidic - which can also cause ‘dental erosion'. This is when the acid in foods and drinks gradually wears away the hard enamel coating of the tooth. This may lead to the tooth being sensitive.
How should I clean my dentures?
It is just as important to clean dentures as it is to clean your natural teeth. Food can become caught around the edges of dentures and clasps, and the food can rot if you do not clean them thoroughly.
You should keep a separate toothbrush for cleaning your dentures. The general rule is: brush, soak and brush again. Clean your dentures over a bowl of water in case you drop them. Brush your dentures before soaking them, to help remove any bits of food. Soak the dentures in a specialist cleaner for a short time and then brush the dentures again. Brush them like you would your natural teeth. Make sure you clean all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface which fits against your gums. If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your dentures cleaned by your dental team. Most dentists still recommend a small- to medium-headed toothbrush.
I have implants, do I have to do anything special?
Your dental team or oral surgeon will tell you how to care for your implants after surgery. It is very important to make sure you clean them regularly and thoroughly to prevent gum disease and possible infection. Follow the instructions your dental team or oral surgeon gives you.
Why should I visit the dental team regularly?
It is always better to prevent problems rather than have to cure them when they happen. If you visit your dental team regularly you will need less treatment and they will spot any problems earlier, making any treatment easier.
Final words
Good dental health begins with you. By following these simple tips you can keep your mouth clean and healthy:
1. Brush your teeth for two minutes, last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, using fluoride toothpaste.
2. Use a toothbrush with a small- to medium-sized head.
3. Use a toothbrush with soft to medium, multi-tufted, round-ended nylon bristles.
4. Consider using a power toothbrush.
5. Use small, circular movements to clean your teeth.
6. Change your toothbrush regularly, and at least every 3 months.
7. Clean between your teeth every day using interdental brushes or dental floss.
8. Have sugary drinks and foods less often.
9. Visit your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend
Our goal is to work for the best dental health of each person who comes to us. If you are pleased with the care you receive in our clinic, tell your friends and family about us. The nicest compliment we can receive is the referral of your friends and loved ones.