Teeth are protected in a hard, outer
covering called enamel. Every day, a slender film of bacteria called dental
plaque builds up on your teeth. The microbes in plaque manufacture acids that
can begin to harm enamel. Over time, the acids can grounds a hole in the
enamel. This hole is called a cavity. Brushing and flossing your teeth can keep
you from decay, but once a cavity happens, a dentist has to fix it. You can defend
your teeth from decay by using fluoride toothpaste. If you are at a higher risk
for tooth decay (for example, if you have a dry mouth because of medicines you take), you might need more fluoride. Your dentist or
dental hygienist may give you a fluoride treatment during an office visit. Or,
the dentist may tell you to use a fluoride gel or mouth rinse at home. Gum
disease begins when plaque builds up along and under the gum line. This plaque
causes infections that damage the gum and bone that hold teeth in place.
Sometimes sugarless gum disease makes your gums tender and more likely to
bleed. This difficulty, called gingivitis, can often be fixed by daily comb-out
and flossing. A more severe form of gum syndrome, called periodontists, needs
to be treated by a dentist. If not treated, this illness can ruin the bones,
gums, and other tissues that support your teeth. Over time, your teeth may have
to be removed. Brush your teeth double a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss
once a day. Visit your dentist regularly for a health check and cleaning.
Eat a well-balanced diet. Quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk for gum
disease.
