Important Tooth Decay Facts
It goes without saying that the majority of people take great care with how they look. One only has to glance at the television or a magazine to see just how wonderfully grooomed we must strive to be. Our hair must be styled just so, and skin must be cleaned, polished and moisturised. However considering how much care people take with their bodies they often neglect their teeth. The range of products available now is staggering, yet tooth decay is still on the increase.
As a child a visit to the dentist is often met with fear and dread. I used to hate the foul tasting treatments with fluoride that I suffered, and the seemingly constant inspections. It is with regret that I have to say that my teeth today are in a poor condition. This is through my own carelessness with my dental routine as well as a liking for eating anything sugary.
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.
Streptococcus Mutans is the name of the bacteria that causes tooth decay. Cavities can appear in teeth in as little as six months, if proper care is not taken of them, or take as long as six years to appear, if more care is taken. The tooth enamel (outer layer of tooth) is hard, whilst the inner tooth is softer. Because the enamel is hard it can take a lot longer for decay to occur but once it does the softer centre of the tooth is exposed and is destroyed 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.
Mouthwash is also an essential part of good dental hygiene. It has an anti-bacterial action as well as freshening breath. The anti-bacterial action fights the bacteria left in the mouth after brushing and flossing, further reducing the chances of decay. Some people do not like the taste of mouthwash but there is such a large choice that there is something to suit everyone’s taste.
The best way to prevent tooth decay would to eliminate all things responsible for the damage. This is not always easy or practical, but by following a simple routine the chances of decay are greatly reduced. The first thing to do would be to ensure one brushes and flosses at least twice daily. Not doing so is the main reason for tooth decay. Next sugar consumption should be reduced, but be vigilant as a lot of foods have a higher sugar content than one might realise. Today there is no need to take fluoride supplements as this is already introduced into our drinking water supply. Last but not least, avoid smoking. Not only does tobacco stain the teeth it can also increase the chances of tooth decay.
If we all followed these guidelines and looked after our teeth properly then our chances of cavities are greatly reduced. We must not forget the other effects of bad dental hygiene, bad breath, pain, discomfort and gum disease.
