Importance of Brushing Teeth
Do you wonder about the significance of such a mundane and routine task of toothbrushing? We do it every day but are we aware of its importance of brushing teeth? Let’s look at some come querries in toothbrushing
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Q1.What are cavities and how is it formed?
A1. Teeth are made of calcium crystals in a structure called apatite similar to that of bone. It is very hard and brittle. It also has grooves and ledges to help in chewing. However, these are prone to food getting stuck. A combination of the sugar in the food and bacteria of the mouth results in mild acid production. This acid has the potential to cause cavities in the tooth.
Q2.What are dental plaque and dental calculus?
A2. The mouth is bathed in saliva which has slimy mucoproteins. These form a coating on the teeth and are protective. This is called a dental plaque. Dental plaque also has bacteria in it. However, when dental plaque is not brushed regularly, it tends to accumulate along with calcium deposits in the teeth. These deposits are yellowish and are called dental calculus. The calculus causes dental gum infections and cavities can develop underneath them.
Q3.Why do we have bacteria in the mouth?
A3. There are millions of bacteria in the mouth. Almost all of them are protective. Some of them when combined with sugary foods or dental calculus tends to cause cavities and gum problems.
Q4.How do I get rid of cavities and gum disease?
A4. Research has proven that brushing your teeth in the morning and night will reduce forming cavities and gum disease. Tooth brushing results in the dislodgement of food particles stuck in grooves of the teeth as well as cleaning the dental plaque.
Q5.What is tooth flossing?
A5. Tooth flossing helps to clean in between the teeth which cannot be cleaned with a toothbrush.
Q6.How to clean dental calculus?
A6. Dental calculus can only be cleaned by ultrasonic cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. These are not cleaned by toothbrushing as they are hard and tenacious.
It is recommended to brush your teeth twice daily and after any meal. If the teeth remain healthy, then the gums stay healthy too. Ensure that your toothpaste contains fluoride for stronger and healthier teeth. Also, children have to be trained to brush in the right manner and for at least 3 minutes, as stated by KidsHealth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the use of a toothbrush with soft bristles, replacing it once every 3-4 months, and the use of dental products having the ADA seal of approval for healthy teeth.
