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| Healthy Teeth |
Failing
to properly brush and floss during treatment can damage a patient's teeth. Food
particles and sugars from drinks can get stuck in the nooks and crannies of
braces, for instance, and stain or otherwise harm teeth. But poor dental health
doesn't just affect your smile, it can affect the rest of your body. Diabetes
and heart disease are linked to oral health.
Patients
are recommended to brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. Patients who
wear braces, should take extra care when brushing. Soft-bristled brushes are
best for the mouth. Electric or battery-operated brushes can remove more plaque
than standard brushing will. Patients should be sure to brush all surfaces of
the teeth, not just those people see.
Toothbrushes
should always be rinsed before and after each use and stored upright.
Toothbrushes should never be covered or touch another toothbrush to prevent
bacteria. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months.
Flossing
should occur each time you brush, as well. Effective flossing will remove
plaque buildup from between the teeth and under the gums. If left alone, this
plaque buildup can lead to gum disease.
Periodontitis
is an oral disease that occurs when plaque builds up, spreading below the
gumline. The toxins of the plaque irritate the gums, leading to irritation and
inflammation. That can then lead to the tissue and bones that support the teeth
breaking down, and eventually becoming destroyed. Small pockets of infection
can grow in the mouth and the teeth will eventually become loose and need to be
removed. The symptoms of periodontitis are mild, but they have very lasting
effects.
That's
why it is important that patients maintain all regular appointments with their
dentists. Schedule checkups every six months and call your dentist at any sign
of trouble. Warning signs include red or swollen gums, gums that bleed when you
brush, loose permanent teeth, tooth sensitivity and persistent bad breath.
Other
tips to remember, especially for patients who wear braces, include avoiding
unnecessary snacking and don't drink sugary beverages. Any time food or drink
comes into contact with teeth, there are more opportunities for problems to
occur. Sugars and acids can wreak havoc on your mouth, eventually leading to
tooth decay. And when patients are wearing braces, those sugars and acids can
settle into the nooks and crannies created.
By
following a few simple tips, patients can maintain their beautiful and radiant
smiles they've worked hard to achieve, and avoid serious diseases such as
diabetes and heart disease at the same time.
