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- How to Properly Brush Your Teeth
If you’re like the rest of us, brushing your teeth is probably one of the first things you learned. You probably learned it so early on that it comes naturally to you. Most likely, you haven't given it any attention since then. But as you get older, something to consider is, “Am I brushing properly?” That makes sense; there might come a time when we realize that our oral hygiene practices should be improved. Here are some pointers on how to wash your teeth correctly, with a reminder of the purpose behind it. First, some justifications: Plaque is a biofilm made by bacteria that sticks tenaciously to your teeth and is easily removed by brushing. Acids produced by the bacteria in plaque damage the tooth's enamel and can result in tooth decay. Gum disease and poor breath can also be caused by plaque. In fact, plaque buildup is thought to be the only cause of nearly 90% of dental diseases. Fluoride in toothpaste improves tooth enamel and increases the resistance of teeth to decay, in addition to eliminating plaque. Additionally, brushing makes your breath smell better and your mouth feels cleaner. There is no one "correct" way to brush your teeth, but you may get them as clean as possible by using a variety of methods. So why wait? Let's practice brushing again straight away! Using the Right Brushing Method Pick a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles, carefully hold it in your fingers (not in your fist), and squeeze on a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Gently press the bristles against the outside of your upper teeth, close to the gum line, at a 45-degree upward angle. Gently sweep the brush over the teeth and gums in back-and-forth motions. If you'd rather, you can also use an elliptical (circular) motion to clean the teeth. Make sure to clean the areas in between your teeth. You can do this by sweeping food debris away from your gums. Move to the area of your teeth next to the one you just finished brushing, and repeat. Continue until you have thoroughly cleaned the top row of teeth's outside. To the lower teeth now. Repeat the process while angling the brush at a 45-degree angle downward toward the gum line. Completely clean the bottom teeth's outside surface. Proceed to the upper teeth's interior. Clean the inside of the top teeth with gentle but thorough strokes while tilting the bristles up toward the gums. Move to the inner surfaces of the lower teeth. Repeat the process while tilting the brush downward. Here are the chewing surfaces now: Clean the ridges and valleys of the back teeth while holding the bristles flat on the molars. Apply this to each top and bottom tooth. To finish, lightly brush your tongue to remove bacteria and improve breath. Verify Your Work. Sparkly Clean? How effectively did you brush? Simply running your tongue over your teeth can give you a clue as to whether or not they are clean. If they feel slick and smooth, they probably are. If not, give it another shot. You can use a "disclosing solution"—a specific dye that reveals plaque and debris your brushing missed—to determine for sure whether you're brushing effectively. One mistake people frequently make is not brushing for long enough—two minutes is typically the very minimum required for proper cleaning. Try brushing while listening to a popular song in the restroom; after the song is over, you're finished! But regardless of your musical preferences, using proper brushing techniques will greatly improve oral hygiene. References: https://www.cdhlynchburg.com/patient/how-to-brush-your-teeth https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/how-to-brush-your-teeth-properly https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/all-topics-a-z/brushing-your-teeth https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/whats-the-right-way-to-brush-your-teeth-202211232854 https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-to-brush-your-teeth
- What Causes Bad Breath and How to Treat It
Nearly everyone occasionally experiences terrible breath. However, some people find it difficult to resolve their daily problems with bad breath. One-third of people claim to have bad breath in some fashion. Halitosis, "bad breath," typically occurs after a meal containing much garlic or immediately after waking up. Additionally, temporary halitosis can be brought on by drinking alcohol or coffee and smoking cigarettes. It can be embarrassing and unsettling for some people to learn that they have terrible breath from a friend, family member, or coworker because they may not know it. In extreme cases, bad breath and foul body odor can damage a person's quality of life and ability to communicate with others. What causes bad breath? Bad breath can come from both within and outside the mouth . The two leading causes of foul breath are bacteria on the teeth and debris on the tongue. The majority of halitosis instances are associated with poor oral hygiene, gum disorders including gingivitis and periodontitis, and dry mouth—a condition in which the salivary glands are unable to produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist—should therefore come as no surprise. A visit to the dentist could aid in ruling out periodontal disease and identify any oral issues that could be the source of bad breath. Tonsillitis, respiratory diseases such as sinusitis or bronchitis, and some gastrointestinal ailments can bring various types of bad breath. Advanced liver or renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or both might cause unpleasant breath. People should seek medical help in these situations since they will likely experience severe symptoms and bad breath. Sometimes, even when their breath is objectively perfect, people think they have bad breath. The medical term for this is pseudo-halitosis. Despite a doctor's reassurance, halitophobia, or the dread of having bad breath, is an actual ailment that can persist. For those with pseudo-halitosis, comfort is helpful, and they might benefit from speaking with a therapist or psychiatrist familiar with the illness. A patient who complains of poor breath might be evaluated by a Primary Care Physician (PCP). The oral examination and thorough medical and dental history are the doctor's first steps. Tests can be run to confirm the presence of halitosis by assessing the severity of bad breath on a scale and using equipment to discover particular components connected to halitosis. The degree of malodor can be evaluated using the tongue , a piece of dental floss, or a device like a night guard. The doctor often smells the air that the patient exhales via their mouth or nose. Your PCP could advise scheduling an appointment with a dentist if there is evidence of tooth or gum issues, which are the most frequent causes of bad breath. Arrangements with different medical specialists are appropriate when an underlying medical issue demands to care. Here are a few Tips for lessening bad breath The advice provided below will assist you in lessening foul breath: Tip 1: After meals, brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste. Tip 2: Avoid using tobacco products and chewing tobacco. Tip 3: Visit the dentist often. Remember that oral factors cause the majority of cases of bad breath! Tip 4: Use over-the-counter moisturizing products, such as a dry mouth spray, rinses, or dry mouth moisturizing gel; if you have a dry mouth, rinse and gargle with an alcohol-free mouthwash before night. If you see no improvement, schedule a consultation with a specialist in oral medicine. Oral medicine specialists provide comprehensive care for a variety of conditions, including mucosal infections, issues with the salivary glands, orofacial pain syndromes, and side effects of cancer treatments. References: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/bad-breath-what-causes-it-and-what-to-do-about-it-2019012115803 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/halitosis-bad-breath https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17771-bad-breath-halitosis
- Maintaining Healthy Teeth For Adults
Just because you've grown up doesn't mean that cavities are history. Even if you don't consume as many sweets as you did as a child, you can still get cavities, in addition to teeth, tooth sensitivity, broken teeth, and gum disease. Additionally, some difficulties with oral health can, regrettably, lead to more severe adult issues. To prevent these issues, we provide an adult approach to managing oral health and well-being: Maintain a Dental Care Schedule "How can I take care of my teeth as I get older?" The solution can be as simple as practicing these six essential steps throughout your adult life constantly: Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice daily to remove plaque, the sticky film that is the primary cause of tooth decay. Remove plaque between your teeth and gum line daily with floss or an interdental treatment to prevent tartar formation. Once tartar has developed, only professional cleaning can get rid of it. Use a mouthwash or mouth rinse every day to rinse away plaque. To get frequent cleanings and examinations, see the dentist. Visit your dentist frequently for comprehensive cleanings. Try a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth if you suffer sensitivity. Consult a dentist if the issue persists since sensitivity could point to a more severe problem, such as a cavity, a broken or fractured tooth, or nerve exposure. Limit the snacks and beverages you consume between meals to prevent tooth enamel damage. And when you do snack, pick healthy options like cheese, fruit, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or them. While you're at it, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal on brushes, toothpaste, floss, rinse, and other goods to ensure high quality. You also want to care for oral health using premium, reputable products like Smile Gloss. Be Aware of Particular Dental Issues You become more prone to oral health issues as you age. Fortunately, by maintaining a consistent oral healthcare practice, you can help prevent these issues. But if oral problems emerge, your dentists can offer diagnosis and care. Your daily oral hygiene habit saves more than your teeth. You may be able to prevent the following types of gum disease with your at-home dental care: Gingivitis The early stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Gums that are red, swollen, or sensitive and tend to bleed when you brush them are symptoms. The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed in its early stages. To avoid a more severe issue, visit your dentist as soon as you discover any symptoms of gingivitis. Periodontitis The most significant issue is periodontitis. Your gums may begin to recede if you have this problem, which could cause tooth loss. That is not what we want to happen! The health of your gums could have an impact on your general health or signal significant health. According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), there is a connection between gum disease and conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and respiratory and cardiac conditions. Cavities Tooth decay (Cavities) - You can have cavities around existing fillings in addition to developing cavities in teeth that were previously healthy (called recurrent decay). Adults are also more likely to develop decay on the root surfaces of their teeth. Tooth Sensitivity The tooth root is exposed when the gums recede due to periodontal disease or from wear and tear brought on by incorrect toothbrushing technique. The absence of enamel on the heart makes it susceptible to producing sensitivity or pain when exposed to cold or hot foods and beverages. In extreme cases, symptoms include sensitivity to cold air, and sour/sweet foods and drinks may appear. How to Whiten Your Teeth and Make Your Smile Brighter The sort of stain you want to remove will affect the tooth-whitening products and techniques you use. External stains on the enamel's surface To get rid of the majority of stains on your teeth from food, wine, cigarettes, and other things: To remove surface stains between dental appointments, use whitening toothpaste. Carefully adhere to the directions on over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments while whitening your teeth. If you've had surface stains for many years, you should have your teeth professionally whitened to eliminate these more difficult external stains. Internal (Enamel) Stains: Professional bleaching, veneer bonding, or crown capping can remove these stains. Although each treatment is secure and efficient, your dentist can suggest the most suitable course. Depending on the condition of your teeth and the outcomes you want, the stains may need to be professionally treated. Maintain Oral Health by Eating a Healthy Diet Proper eating benefits your general health and supports solid teeth and gums. A balanced diet provides the vital nutrients and minerals your gum tissues and teeth require to be strong and fend against infections. Since your general and oral health is our top priorities, you should be aware of the following: Vegetables and fruits that are firm and fibrous tend to help clean tissues and teeth. Limit foods high in sugar or carbohydrate, incredibly sticky snacks. The more frequently you snack between meals, the more opportunities you provide plaque acids to erode your tooth enamel. Soft, sticky foods tend to adhere in the gaps and grooves between teeth, increasing plaque. The bacteria in plaque create acids that damage your teeth for at least 20 minutes when you consume foods and beverages that contain sugars or starches. Limit the snacks and beverages you consume between meals to prevent tooth enamel damage. And when you do snack, pick healthy options like cheese, fruit, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or them. Here are the fundamentals to assist you in maintaining your teeth and gums as an adult. Most importantly, your teeth are more likely to stay white and decay-free if you follow a regular oral health practice and eat a balanced diet. And wouldn't it be lovely if you could age gracefully and keep your natural, healthy teeth? This data is provided solely for educational reasons. This information does not replace qualified medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Ask your dentist, doctor, or another knowledgeable healthcare professional for assistance. References: https://doi.nv.gov/Consumers/Long-Term-Care-Insurance/ https://www.perio.org/for-patients/faqs/ https://www.perio.org/press-release/new-study-links-periodontitis-and-covid%E2%80%9019-complications/ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/gum-disease https://www.electricteeth.com/gingivitis-gum-disease/ https://www.enfieldroyalsaudia.com/routine-dental-checkup/ https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-part-1-topics/