Hygiene
Regular cleanings twice a year is an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth and beautiful smile.
Between the cleanings, good oral hygiene is essential for preventing tartar build-up. This is done by carefully and frequently brushing with a toothbrush and the use of dental floss to prevent accumulation of plaque on the teeth.
Tongue cleaning - We recommend daily use of a tongue cleaner to remove the bacterial coating that generates bad breath and may affect the health of teeth and gums.
Gum care - Massaging gums is generally recommended for good oral health. Flossing is recommended at least once per day, preferably before bedtime, to help prevent gum disease, and cavities between the teeth.
Food and drink
Foods that help muscles and bones also help teeth and gums. Breads and cereals are rich in vitamin B while fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, both of which contribute to healthy gum tissue. Lean meat, fish, and poultry provide magnesium and zinc for teeth.
Beneficial foods
Some foods may protect against cavities. Fluoride is a primary protector against dental cavities. Fluoride makes the surface of teeth more resistant to acids during the process of re-mineralization. Drinking fluoridated water is highly recommended by dental professionals. Milk and cheese are also rich in calcium and phosphate, and may also encourage re-mineralization. All foods increase saliva production, and since saliva contains buffer chemicals this helps to stabilize the pH to near 7 (neutral) in the mouth. Foods high in fiber may also help to increase the flow of saliva. Sugar-free chewing gum stimulates saliva production, and helps to clean the surface of the teeth.
Detrimental foods
Sugars are commonly associated with dental cavities. Sucrose (table sugar) is most commonly associated with cavities, although glucose, fructose, and maltose seem equally likely to cause cavities. The amount of sugar consumed at any one time is less important than how often food and drinks that contain sugar are consumed. The more frequently sugars are consumed, the greater the time during which the tooth is exposed to low pH levels, at which point demineralization occurs (below 5.5 for most people). It is important therefore to try to encourage infrequent consumption of food and drinks containing sugar so that teeth have a chance to be repaired by re-mineralization and fluoride. Limiting sugar-containing foods and drinks to meal times is one way to reduce the incidence of cavities.
Artificially refined sugar is not the only type that can promote dental cavities. There are also sugars found in fresh fruit and fruit juices. In addition, these foods (oranges, lemons, limes, apples, etc.) also contain acids which lower the pH level. Soft drinks are unhealthy for the teeth, because of their lower pH and also because of their sugar content. Drinking sugared soft drinks throughout the day raises the risk of dental cavities tremendously.
Another factor which affects the risk of developing cavities is the stickiness of foods. Some foods or sweets may stick to the teeth and so reduce the pH in the mouth for an extended time, particularly if they are sugary. It is important that teeth be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, to remove any food sticking to the teeth. Regular brushing and the use of dental floss also remove the dental plaque coating the tooth surface.
Chewing gum assists oral irrigation between and around the teeth, cleaning and removing particles, but for teeth in poor condition it may damage or remove loose fillings as well. Check with us during your regular visits for cleanings, and we will be happy to suggest the best options and care for health of your teeth.
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