Good oral hygiene
habits begin with brushing twice and flossing once each day, but in order to
keep your teeth and gums healthy, you need to do a few other things to keep you cavity and gum disease free.
The American Dental Association explains that bacteria are alive
and well and living in your mouth, however, not all bacteria is good bacteria.
Plaque causing bacteria, will cause cavities and gum disease. If you want to
keep your mouth healthy and clean, good oral hygiene habits are a must.
Just what is plaque?
Plaque contains
bacteria and is that sticky layer of film that will accumulate on your teeth,
especially where your toothbrush can’t reach. Even if you brush twice and floss
once each day, you will still produce bacteria as certain foods can cause
bacteria buildup.
Your dentist recommends that you avoid sugary
and starchy food, which can cause high levels of acidic bacteria to form. Plaque
irritates your gums and will make them sensitive and red causing them to bleed.
If this is happening to you, it could be gingivitis, which is usually
reversible, however, if gum disease isn’t prevented and advances to the more
serious periodontal disease, which leaves pockets in-between your teeth and
gums that fill with bacteria, the bone that surrounds your teeth could be
destroyed eventually causing tooth loss.
Plaque Removal
The best and most
efficient way to get rid of plaque is to brush and floss everyday as brushing
will remove the bacteria. Use fluoride antimicrobial toothpaste that will help
prevent tooth decay. Use dental floss to remove dangerous plaque in between
your teeth as your toothbrush cannot reach the cracks and crevices and don’t
forget to schedule regular professional teeth cleaning appointments with your
dentist.
Following a good
healthy diet that is full of fruits, vegetables and dairy products, dairy
actually helps strengthen the enamel on your teeth, will help keep your mouth
healthy as well as regular checkups with your dentist.
Don’t let plaque get
the better of you. Call or click and schedule a dental checkup with your
dentist today.
