It would seem that the television is obsessed with our appearance but in truth all that TV does is supply the entertainment that people demand. Is it any wonder that the vast majority of us are preoccupied with our appearance? A quick browse through the magazines this month will force you to look at an endless supply of perfect people. Perfect skin and perfect bodies and a bright white smile. Of course most of use take good care of ourselves and some go to great lengths to look their best. Unfortunately it would appear that tooth care is often bottom of the list and tooth decay continues to appear at an alarming rate.

Where you, like me, one of those children who had to have a fluoride tooth treatment? I hated it and I was very distressed by the whole ordeal. My parents were very strict and I was continually told how and when to clean my teeth. However, now I am much older, I find that I have terrible tooth decay. Sadly I did not continue my good dental hygiene and badly neglected my teeth so, I suppose, I only have myself to blame.

If we do not brush our teeth after eating some of our food will remain around our teeth. This leads to increased bacterial action in the mouth. Around 500 various chemicals are produced from the bacteria and the most harmful to our teeth is acid. Sadly our teeth are prone to attack from acid and, if bacteria are allowed to run riot, cavities can begin to appear. In a very short space of time the cavities can collapse leaving a hole in the tooth.

The name given to the nasty bacteria that is the cause of tooth decay is Streptococcus mutans. This bacteria is so destructive that it can cause damage to the tooth enamel that causes it to collapse in as short a period as 6 months. Sometimes it takes longer, maybe a few years, or, if you are lucky it can take as long as 8 years.

The most common places for cavities to appear is in the small gap between teeth. Even if you brush your teeth well and often you will find that it can be incredibly difficult to clean these areas using a toothbrush. To avoid decay in this area you will need to get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly.

Another way in which to avoid cavities and tooth decay is to regularly use mouthwash. Just take a look at how many different types of mouthwash are available to choose from. Surely this tells you something of the importance of it’s use? Not only does mouthwash help to keep your breath smelling nice and fresh it’s main benefit is it’s antibacterial action which lowers the levels of bacteria in the mouth and therefore reduces the risk of the tooth damaging acids from forming in the first place.

Of course the easiest way to reduce the risks of tooth decay is to avoid all the causes of it so, for your information here is a basic run down of the most common causes of cavities. 1. Not brushing or flossing the teeth, this is the most obvious and most common cause of cavities. 2. Avoiding fluoride. Fluoride is now often found added to the water supply and in most dental products. 3. Smoking tobacco. Smoking is known to increase the risk of cavities. 4. Eating too much sugar. This is well known but many food have a hidden sugar content that is often far higher than you would expect.

Just by following the tips and advice above you should be able to ensure a reduced risk of cavity formation. However it is hoped that you will investigate this subject a little further so that you can develop a good tooth care regime and have healthy strong teeth. Cavities in teeth can be very painful but, by looking after your teeth correctly, this misery can be avoided.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Share This