The Bad News
Although most people are aware of the reasons behind proper, daily tooth
brushing, few people realize that clean teeth and healthy gums can prevent a
wide variety of other general, even life-threatening, health
problems! When you don't brush, your mouth's normal population of bacteria
multiplies on your teeth and gums, there depositing a sticky 'plaque'
substance. This plaque mixes with the sugars and food debris, forms a strong
acid substance, and eats away at your enamel. hence, 'decay'. Over time, the
decay works its way into your tooth's inner layers, causing further
destruction. Meanwhile, the outer tooth plaque build-up irritates your gums,
causing them to pull away from the teeth, expose the sensitive tooth root
structure, and create bacteria/pus pockets. These in turn irritate and
destroy the actual bone responsible for holding your teeth in position.
Even more sobering is the fact that the presence of chronic gum disease
(periodontal disease or pyorrhea) breaks the protective tissue barrier
between normal oral bacteria and your blood stream, allowing bacteria to
enter the blood. And although the precise connection isn't understood, that
circulating bacteria can lead to heart infection in people with previously
damaged or weakened heart muscle/valves. In fact, gum disease may double
your risk for heart disease, and triple your risk of stroke. Finally, gum
disease during pregnancy increases the likelihood of a low birth weight
baby, and all the accompanying troubles.
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The
Good News
The best news is that
none of these terrible things have to happen, if you'll follow good
home hygiene habits and come in for regular professional cleanings.
Establish a firm habit of brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush
using the proper technique and a quality fluoride toothpaste, and
flossing carefully once per day. What's the best technique? For at
least 3-4 minutes each session, brush with a small, angled brush in
little, circular motions across all tooth surfaces and all gum-line
areas. Avoid a horizontal scrubbing motion. Cover two-three teeth at a time, applying gentle, firm
pressure, and avoid any gum-damaging scrubbing motions. For an even
more thorough brushing, consider purchasing an electric toothbrush.
After brushing your teeth, remember to brush your tongue to remove
germs and bacteria and keep your breath fresh. Finally, rinse your
entire mouth with water and spit out the debris. And remember to
replace that toothbrush every three to four months, so that your
bristles remain effectively positioned and so that you don't harbor
harmful bacteria in the old brush.
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