Brush and Floss
No one likes the twice-annual lecture from their dentist or hygienist regarding the ills of poor oral hygiene particularly flossing. We really are not as plaque obsessed as we seem. The reasons we want to remove plaque thoroughly from all surfaces at least once a day are fairly simple. Both decay and periodontal diseases are infections caused by a number of specific bacteria that live in the plaque deposits. Once removed it takes about twenty-four hours for the bacteria to grow to pathologic (disease causing) levels. Brushing only allows these germs to thrive between the teeth, so flossing daily is imperative. The simple act of proper daily hygiene will prevent the majority of dental troubles in most people.
Fluoride
Fluoride helps prevent decay in two ways. Fluoride molecules integrated into tooth structure, either systemically during development or topically once teeth are erupted, make the enamel more resistant to acid attack. Bacteria use acid to dissolve tooth structure as the integral part of the decay infection. Fluoride is also toxic to many bacteria, including those involved in decay. Topical fluoride via toothpaste and rinses lowers bacterial counts significantly. This double whammy helps fluoride reduce decay to its current historically low levels in fluoridated communities. Always use fluoride toothpaste, and anyone with an increased risk of decay should use rinses. Fluoride rinses are most effective if used at bedtime.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking is just plain terrible for your mouth. Stain and yellow teeth are the obvious problems, but the hidden damage is far more threatening. Smokers are much more likely to suffer oral cancer than non-smokers. Periodontal disease in smokers is more severe, progresses faster, and responds very poorly to treatment. Smokeless tobacco is problematic as well, with a high risk for oral cancer and gum damage.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Sticking to prescribed recall periods is obviously important for the control of periodontal disease. However the regular check up is important as well, including x-rays. Almost all oral diseases are asymptomatic in their early stages; including periodontitis, gingivitis, decay, and oral cancer. In addition, these problems are much easier and less expensive to fix when caught early. A filling costs less than a root canal and crown, early non-surgical treatment is cheaper and easier than gum surgery, and small oral cancers are easily cured whereas advanced lesions result in complex, disfiguring treatments.
Protect your teeth
Dental protection includes the obvious, such as wearing mouth guards for sports. Less obvious ways to protect your teeth from trauma include always wearing a seatbelt, never use your teeth as tools, and wearing a night guard if bruxism is evident.
