Personal Hygiene: Caring for Our Teeth

There are many types of bacteria normally found in your mouth. A build-up of bacteria, acids, food debris, and saliva can form a sticky film on the surface of teeth called plaque. Plaque sticks to the areas around your gums and in the indents in your molars.

Did you know?

Your teeth start to form before you are born while still in the womb. But they only emerge after you are born, with all teeth emerging by the time you are 2-3 years old.  

The formation of plaque is a normal process that you can’t prevent. But if plaque builds up, it will eventually harden into tartar. (Dentists call tartar calculus.) Tartar can only be removed by professional cleaning. 

If plaque stays in your mouth long enough, it can lead to tooth decay or cavities. Dentists call cavities dental caries. Cavities occur when the bacteria in the plaque break down sugars and starches to produce acids, which then attack the enamel of the tooth. If the decay extends through the enamel into the pulp, you will get a toothache! The cavity will have to be repaired with a filling.

Misconception Alert

Many people believe that sugar is the main cause of tooth decay. Sugar is only part of the reason for tooth decay. Acids are the main cause of tooth decay. They are created when bacteria in plaque act on carbohydrates. Sugar is a type of carbohydrate.

Did you know?

Tooth enamel is the hardest and most durable substance in the human body. It is even harder than bone!

Plaque can also lead to inflammation of the gums. The dental term for gums is gingiva, so inflammation of the gums is called gingivitis. The majority of plaque can be removed by brushing your teeth. So if you want to prevent gingivitis, brush your teeth! 
Gingivitis can develop into an infection called periodontitis. That’s an inflammation of the ligaments and bones that support the teeth.

Misconception Alert

Oral health may not seem to be related to overall health. But some studies suggest that poor oral health can be linked to heart disease and stroke. The theory is that the bacteria from the mouth can get into the bloodstream and create problems.

How to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis
 

When you brush your teeth, you break up plaque. When plaque breaks up, the bacteria don’t have time to stick to your teeth.
The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste 20-30 minutes after you eat. It’s especially important to brush before bedtime. 

Misconception Alert

It may seem that children’s oral care does not matter because they do not yet have their permanent teeth. But cavities and gum disease can happen in children, too. Gum disease occurs when the gums get infected around the tooth. Brushing and flossing daily can stop gum disease and cavities in children and adults alike.

Here are some other tips to help keep your teeth and gums healthy: 

• Gently brush your gums and tongue as well as your teeth. Brushing removes bacteria and food particles from all of these places. 
• Floss your teeth once a day to remove plaque and food that's stuck between your teeth.
• Limit sweets and sugary drinks, like soda or juice.
• Get a checkup from your dentist at least once a year.

Did you know?

The first bristle toothbrushes were made from hog bristles. These toothbrushes were used in China from 600-900 AD and in Europe during the Middle Ages.