Every time we look at the TV we are shown images of glamorous, gorgeous people, and the ordinary person can feel presssured to achieve the same standards. A lot of people assume that good hair and skin care routines are the answer to achieving these standards, a lot of people also forget the most essential thing to looking good - a healthy smile. A good dental care routine should be top of everyone’s list, but it is obvious this is not always the case. Tooth decay instead of declining is still on the increase.
Our experiences as children at the hands of the dentist often reflect how we care for our teeth in the future. I can remember the awful taste of the fluoride treatments my parents made me have. I always had regular check-ups, yet still my teeth have succumbed to decay. This is not because I looked after teeth as a child, but the fact that this care lapsed in later life. An addiction to anything sweet did not help either.
Bacteria in the mouth is formed if we do not brush our teeth after eating. Even brushing after every meal does remove all traces of food, and this is when bacteria occurrs. The action of the bacteria in the mouth in turn produces a lot of other products, the most damaging of which is acid. If this is not controlled then the end result is not a good one - cavities.
The name of this harmful bacteria is “Streptococcus Mutans”. The occurrence of decay does not happen overnight, it can take quite a long time as the outside layer of the tooth (enamel) is hard while the inside is soft. It can take years for the bacteria to attack and wear away the enamel, once this has happened the centre of the tooth is attacked and because of it’s texture succumbs to decay a lot quicker.
The tiny space between teeth is where the first signs of decay are usually found. This can be easily treated by using the most effective method around - flossing. It is vital that we still brush our teeth but must follow this with flossing. This has been proved to be the best way clean inbetween teeth thoroughly.
Cavities and tooth decay can be kept at bay in many ways. One of these ways is the regular use of mouthwash. Bacteria and acids are reduced by the use of mouthwash as it has an anti-bacterial action. It is not just used for its breath freshening properties.
Avoiding tooth decay can be quite simple, just try to avoid all the culprits. Try to remove as much sugar from ones diet as possible, not forgetting that a lot of foods have hidden sugars. Do not take fluoride tablets as it is present in most water supplies, and also in found in toothpaste. Too much fluoride can be as harmful as too little. Don’t smoke as this has been found to increase the risks of tooth decay. Last but not least, not brushing and flossing teeth are the main contributors to cavities.
If we look after our teeth, visit our dentist regularly, and take heed of his advice, then the chances of decay are greatly reduced. A good oral hygiene routine is essential in eliminating cavities, extractions and pain.