Frequently Asked Questions
What is the plaque?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. After a meal or a snack, plaque bacteria release acids that attack the enamel of the tooth.
The repeated attacks can cause the enamel to weaken and finally produce a dental caries. Many of the foods that we eat make bacterial plaque produces acids. If you eat snacks often, their enamel could suffer attacks by these acids throughout the day. The plaque that is not removed with a lengthy brushing and cleaning between the teeth all day can harden over time and form tartar or Tatar.
Plaque also produces substances that irritate the gums, which become red, sore or bleed easily. After a while, the gum can be removed from the teeth. Pockets are formed which are filled with more bacteria and pus. Untreated gum, it can be the destruction of the bone surrounding the teeth. Teeth can loose or have to be extracted. In fact, periodontal disease (gum) is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
One way to prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease (gum) is achieved by eating a balanced diet and reducing the number of snacks between meals. If you need a snack, choose nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, yogurt, cheese or fruit.
What are the tips for daily oral care?
The best way to remove decay-causing plaque is by brushing and interdental cleaning everyday. The brushing removes plaque from tooth surfaces.
Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft bristle brush. The size and shape of the brush should be suitable for your mouth, allowing you to reach all areas easily. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, because they help protect teeth from decay. When choosing a dental product look for the Seal of Acceptance from the American Dental Association, an important symbol on the safety and effectiveness of a dental product.
Cleaning between the teeth once a day with floss or interdental cleaners removes plaque from between the teeth, ie the areas that the toothbrush can not reach. This cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal (gum).
If you care for your teeth, eat a balanced diet and go to the dentist regularly, you can get healthy teeth and an attractive smile for life. Follow these tips to keep your teeth and mouth clean:
How should I brush my teeth?
- Correct brushing technique. Place your toothbrush at an angle of 45 degrees against the gum.
- Move the brush back and forth gently in short strokes (tooth width).
- Brush the outer surfaces of the teeth, the internal tooth surfaces and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Use the brush vertically to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, with a smooth top to bottom.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
How should I floss?
- Break off about 45 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take care of silk as it becomes dirty. Hold the floss tightly between the thumb and index finger.
- Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never blow dry the gum with dental floss.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, C-shaped bend it against the tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side surface of the tooth, moving the floss in the opposite direction moves the gum with up and down.
- Repeat this method with the rest of your teeth.
- Do not forget to clean the back of the last tooth.
People who have difficulty handling dental floss may use other interdental cleaner. These devices include special brushes, toothpicks or interdental sticks. If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist how to use them properly to avoid the possibility of damaging the gums.