Almost every single activity that one does every day involves their mouth. Be it eating, drinking, laughing, speaking, smiling, or having fun, the mouth is possibly involved. Good oral health maintenance can help keep the teeth clean always. Maintaining a home regimen of oral hygiene care and having dental examinations and cleanings every year will help in keeping one’s mouth as healthy as possible and detecting problems before they worsen.

Is Plaque Inevitable?

Plaque is a sticky, clear film that covers the teeth after one eats or drinks. If it’s not taken out, it can lead to gingivitis and dental caries. Foods and beverages that are sugar- and carbohydrate-heavy are particularly susceptible to causing bacteria in the mouth. When the bacteria isn’t eradicated by flossing and brushing, they gather between the crevices of the gums and teeth and are transformed into tartar or calculus deposits. This marks the start of gingivitis and can lead to one losing their teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can be formed by gingivitis and can leave one with no teeth, causing the loss of some of the jawbone.

Signs of Gingivitis

One may not notice they have gingivitis because it often presents itself asymptomatically. However, make a dental appointment in case of these signs: purplish/dark red/discolored gums, gum bleeding on brushing/flossing, bad breath, gums swollen or inflamed, loose teeth, changes in the bite, and sensitivity to sugary foods or cold and hot temperatures.

Oral Health Basics

• Before bedtime, brush for a minimum of two minutes.
• Every quarter or after one has fallen ill, change the toothbrush.
• Flossing every day is crucial in order to get rid of food particles stuck between the teeth.
• Use an American Dental Association-approved antibacterial mouthwash to eradicate bacteria missed during flossing and brushing. Ensure the mouthwash is swished around in the mouth for 30 seconds.
• Avoid food and beverages that are high in sugar and carbohydrates as they mingle with the bacteria in the mouth and pose a danger to the tooth enamel, eventually destroying it.
• Have a personal dentist who can be visited regularly. The American Dental Association suggests going for cleanings and checkups twice a year, annually at a minimum.