Meet your mouth's five worst enemies
Cavities
"Cavities" are the result of tooth decay which is allowed to progress. Whether or not you will develop tooth decay or cavities depends on: what you eat; how well you take care of your teeth; whether you use fluoride toothpaste or have fluoride in your water; your saliva, lifestyle, medical conditions and medications along with some inherited characteristics.
Tooth decay can form around existing fillings and crowns as these areas can accumulate plaque. New cavities are most likely to develop in pits on the teeth and near the gum line. Fluoride is the most effective treatment for the prevention of cavities. Make sure you brush twice daily with a fluoride paste and visit your dentist regularly.
Bad breath
Many people suffer from halitosis, or bad breath, at some time. Aside from food and drink, many things can cause bad breath including: poor oral hygiene; gum disease; dry mouth and some medical conditions.
To help prevent bad breath you should: brush thoroughly twice daily (including your tongue); remove and clean dentures each night and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.
Plaque
Plaque is a sticky, colourless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It is the main cause of cavities and gum disease and can harden into tartar if not removed daily.
Everyone develops plaque which is why it is important to practice good oral hygiene every day. The bacteria within plaque produce acid from sugars in your diet. These acids can lead to tooth decay by dissolving the tooth. Plaque can also irritate the gums leading to gingivitis (red, swollen, bleeding gums). If untreated, gingivitis can progress to more serious gum disease.
To help prevent plaque: brush thoroughly at least twice a day; floss daily; limit sugary or starchy foods and visit your dentist regularly for check-up and cleaning.
Tartar
Tartar is plaque that has hardened on your teeth. It can also form underneath the gum line and irritate gum tissues. Not only can tartar threaten the health of your teeth and gums, it's also a cosmetic problem because it absorbs stains easily.
The most common sign of tartar is a yellow or brown colour to teeth or gums. The only way for sure to detect tartar (and to remove it) is to see your dentist. To help prevent plaque, proper brushing (especially with a fluoride toothpaste) and flossing are essential. Once tartar has formed, only your dentist or hygienist can remove it.
Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is caused by exposure of the dentine or inner part of the tooth. The most common cause in adults is receding gums that expose the tiny channels leading to the tooth's nerve center.
Tooth sensitivity often occurs after drinking or eating hot or cold food and beverages. This causes a painful experience in teeth. For everyday treatment use a sensitive toothpaste which can help relieve the sensitivity when used regularly. Make sure you also use a soft bristled brush so that it's gentle on your sensitive teeth and gums.
Your dentist or hygienist can help manage tooth sensitivity successfully by prescribing appropriate products or treatments. Beware of overzealous brushing as this can also lead to abrasion (loss of tooth surface).
