Good oral hygiene begins from an early age. We all have that grandparent or elderly neighbor who says if they could go back and do it all over again, they’d have taken better care of their teeth. Unfortunately, people tend to put themselves last when it comes to the things that they must take care of. When it comes to dental health, we’re lucky if we get to brush and floss once a day.
Plaque
Somehow, we must learn how to take better care of our teeth and gums and this is where oral hygiene practices come into play. And really, it all comes down to plaque. Plaque is the slimy, fuzzy-like coating that collects on your teeth throughout the day. Bacteria thrive in the plaque and can cause a host of problems. Plaque can be removed by brushing your teeth at least once a day, though twice is best. When you don’t brush off this plaque, it hardens and turns into tartar.
Tartar & Gum Disease
Tartar can be formed in a little bit over a day; this is why you should brush at least once a day if not more. Once the tartar hardens onto your teeth, it will stay there, harboring bacteria, until it is professionally removed by your dentist. Tartar cannot be brushed off at home. The bacteria that thrive in the tartar can cause damage to your gums by causing gingivitis, which can make your gums irritated and sore. Gingivitis can then get worse and cause periodontitis, which causes infected pockets to form around your teeth; this can promote tooth decay and loss. Gum disease has even been linked to heart disease if left untreated.
You must take the proper steps to prevent plaque and tartar buildup before it progresses.
- Brush twice a day for 2 minutes each time
- Use a toothpaste with fluoride
- Floss every day
- Limit sweets and sugary foods
- Drink plenty of water
- Do not smoke
- See your dentist regularly
Seeing a dentist on a regular basis is one of the most important things that you can do for your dental health. Your dentist will be able to detect any problems or issues early so that they can be fixed easily and quickly. The dentist can find a cavity while it is still small enough to fix with a simple filling, long before you would need a more invasive procedure. Regular dental cleanings will keep your teeth fresh and free from plaque, allowing you a fresh start. And by getting regular dental x-rays, your dentist will know every aspect of your mouth for evaluation.
At Shine Dental, we offer a complete range of dental services and can give you specialized dental care. Not only can we treat immediate concerns, we’ll be here for you long-term. From cleanings to dentures, fillings to implants, and everything in between, we’ve got your back; or should we say mouth? Don’t let plaque and tartar ruin your teeth; stop it before it starts. Call us or stop by our state-of-the-art facility on Long Island. We offer a free consultation to get your started and keep you going in the dental direction you want to go.
