- What causes tooth loss?
- When should a child have his
or her first dental appointment?
- What causes Periodontal Disease?
- Can Periodontal Disease be
prevented?
- How does plaque attack the gum?
- How do you stop plaque attacks?
- How many times a day should I brush my teeth?
- Which is better: a manual toothbrush or an
electric one?
- What type of toothbrush should I
use?
- If I use fluoride toothpaste and the
water in my area is fluoridated, do I still need additional fluoride?
The most common causes of tooth loss are dental caries,
also known as tooth decay, and periodontal disease, which affects the gums and
bone structure that supports the teeth. Dental caries is the major cause of
tooth loss in children, and periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss
in adults. However, periodontal disease can afflict young children as well.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the
American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that a child have his/her first oral
health care appointment around age one. ADHA suggests an oral health visit as
soon as a baby's first tooth erupts.
Plaque, a thin, colorless, sticky film containing
bacteria, which constantly forms on the the teeth. These bacteria use
carbohydrates- sugars and starches - to produce an acid that attacks the enamel
covering the teeth. After repeated acid attacks. The enamel can be broken down
and a cavity begins. Continued acid attacks eventually dissolve the enamel and
penetrate the softer, inner layer of the tooth, where decay can spread rapidly
throughout the tooth's structure. Acid attacks begin immediately after every
meal or shack and last about 20 to 30 minutes.
Teeth ca be protected from acid attacks by removing
plaque, reducing the number of times and the amount of sugar and starches eaten;
using fluorides; having plastic sealants applied to teeth; and by regular
professional cleaning of teeth by a dental hygienist.
Plaque can also produce harmful by products that irritate
the gums, causing gingivitis, the early stage of Periodontal Diseases. If plaque
isn't removed daily, it will build up into a hard deposit called calculus. If
plaque continues to form on top of the calculus, it can irritate the gums and a
pocket may develop between the teeth and gums. Plaque build up can eventually
destroy the gums and bone that support the teeth.
Two key factors in preventing dental caries are fluoride
and dental sealants. Fluoride compounds are found naturally in soil, water, and
in many foods. Plaque attacks can't be stopped, but you can help to prevent
plaque build-up by following a good oral care program of brushing, flossing,
rinsing, and regular visits to your oral health care professional.
The American Dental Association advocates brushing twice
each day. Although there is research indicating that brushing once a day is
sufficient to disrupt the formation of plaque that feeds the bacteria that cause
decay. This may not be enough for some people, depending on factors such as
their diets and the efficiency of their brushing technique. ADHA recommends that
you discus this with your dental hygienist who understands your individual oral
health needs and be able to make a recommendation appropriate for you.
Comparisons have been made between power-assisted
(electric) toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes to look at the ability of each
to remove plaque and prevent or reduce calculus (tartar) build-up, thus reducing
a gingivitis (gum disease). These research studies have shown both powered and
manual toothbrushes to be equally effective when used correctly.
There are a lot of products to choose from and much of the
decision depends on individual preference. A fluoride toothpaste is essential
for optimal oral health. Beyond that, you dental hygienist and dentist can alert
you to any other features that make one product more suitable than another for
you as an individual.
This depends on your oral health status and any additional
sources of fluoride that you may be receiving. Talk to your oral health care
professionals about this topic for individualized information.
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