What’s the magic formula to getting strong, healthy, bright teeth? …If only it was as simple as that! Although there isn’t an infallible formula, there are some basic steps that can ensure your teeth are well looked after and kept as healthy as possible.
Firstly, let’s just get some background knowledge of what we’re avoiding- Caries and Cavities.
Dental Caries/ Cavities: Dental Caries/ Tooth Decay is the demineralisation of the tooth surface. This is usually caused by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Cavities are the result of prolonged loss of minerals, like calcium and phosphate from the enamel and dentine. A white spot on the tooth, usually near the gums, may be an early sign of demineralisation. At this early stage, minerals can be replaced with the help of fluoride and repair the tooth. If minerals continue to be lost, a hole (cavity) forms in the tooth and a filling is required, to repair the damage. Decay in adults is common on the chewing surfaces, the surfaces between the teeth and around fillings. A particular problem may be decay on the root surfaces of teeth where gums recede.
How to Prevent Caries? Remove plaque from all tooth surfaces daily, by brushing and flossing. Contrary to popular belief, flossing is actually just as important as brushing. Flossing reaches the hidden surfaces that cannot be reached by a brush.
Use a fluoride toothpaste at least twice per day: morning and night.
Use a soft toothbrush. Brush in circular motions so you don’t miss any tooth surface or gum area.
Our Kogarah dental staff recommend using floss or other special cleaning aids such as interdental brushes (small cylindrical-shaped brushes) to clean in between teeth, where cavities often develop (ask our Kogarah dental professionals for advice).
Make changes to your diet by reducing sugar intake- beware of hidden sugar. E.g. Sports/ Energy Drinks, some Muesli Bars.
If you have the feeling of a dry mouth, talk to your dentist or hygienist.
Have regular dental check-ups: at least, twice a year. Your dentist or hygienist can recognise the early signs of tooth decay, like white spots near the gum line or dark spots, which could be decay or a stain.
How does Fluoride work? Fluoride helps to: 1. Prevent mineral loss caused by plaque acids 2. Promote re-mineralisation of early decay Fluoride acts against the destruction of the tooth surface by acids formed by bacteria in several ways. It forms a store of fluoride on the teeth from which fluoride is released during an acid attack. It reduces the loss of minerals from the tooth and promotes the repair of early decay. Here at our Kogarah dental clinic, we apply a fluoride gel after our check up and clean services to replenish and strengthen the tooth structure.
Why Increase Caries Protection when having Dry Mouth? A lack of saliva results in dry mouth. Saliva is the body’s natural defence against tooth decay. Saliva washes away and neutralises acids and restores minerals back into teeth. If you lack adequate saliva flow, your teeth can more easily decay and wear away, and more gum problems can arise. Smoking, caffeine, some medicines and illnesses that affect saliva glands may reduce your saliva flow. It is important not to suck on sugary sweets or to drink sugary drinks to relieve the feeling of a dry mouth. These habits can cause very rapid tooth decay. Be sure to speak to your dentist or hygienist if dry mouth is something you are trying to combat.
In summary, here are the main steps to follow for healthy teeth:
Brush (using a soft toothbrush) in circular motions, twice per day
Floss at least once per day
Use a fluoridated toothpaste
Limit sugary foods and drinks
Avoid using teeth for other purposes besides chewing. e.g. Opening bottle tops, packaging. This will eliminate risk of chipping or breaking your teeth.
Visit your dentist at least twice per year
Enquire at our Kogarah dental clinic via phone (02) 9588 3979 or email smile@cosmeticdentalsydney.sydney to get on your way to a healthier smile.