Good teeth and gum care is an important part of maintaining overall health. Now that most of us are #stayHome due to #CoronaVirus oandemic and can’t keep our dental appointments, teeth and gum care is even more important than ever. Poor oral health is significantly associated with major chronic diseases, can cause disability, and contribute to low self-esteem. Now more than ever we should be following Teeth and Gum care guidelines to avoid any health issues related to oral issues.
As you know both our offices “ParkviewDental Vancouver and Implant Centre” and “Dentist@Falsecreek” are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As soon as we reopen we will schedule your much needed dental visit and checkup.
Appropriate teeth and gum care at home during these times are very important and doesn’t require extra time or expensive instruments. Avoiding sugars, and daily gentle tooth brushing and flossing is the basic foundation. Of course as soon as the current situation goes back to normal, you should have your dental rutin visit.
Also, Not smoking, drinking plenty of water, and getting regular dental cleanings and checkups are absolutely needed to keep gums healthy and teeth cavity free.
Fast facts on tooth and gum care:
- A tooth is primarily composed of minerals.
- Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that sticks to teeth.
- Bacteria use sugar, produce acids, which dissolves tooth’s enamel.
- Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease.
How to brush and Floss
Brushing teeth gently with fluoridated toothpaste is the one of best method of reducing plaque. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) recommends brushing for at least 2 minutes, twice daily.
Proper brushing technique cleans teeth and gums effectively. But be gentle. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Use a soft toothbrush – to prevent damage to the enamel, and your gums only use a soft toothbrush.
- Brush at a 45-degree angle – the angle of the brush is important, the toothbrush should be placed against the teeth at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
- Motion correctly – using very short gentle back, forth, and small circular motions, all tooth surfaces should be gently brushed, avoid a sawing or scrubbing motion. Again, Be gentle 😉
- Brush the tongue – use your toothbrush to do a light brushing of the tongue.
- Keep the mouth clean after brushing – avoid eating for 30 minutes after brushing.
A toothbrush should be replaced at least every 3 months, as well as after any illness.
Daily flossing is necessary step in Teeth and Gum care. Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach. The area just beneath the gum line and the tight spaces between teeth are vulnerable areas where plaque can build up and turn to tartar. If you do not floss regularly, the build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to cavities, as well as gum disease.
There is overwhelming evidence that sugars are the biggest dietary contributor to dental disease. Specifically, it is the amount and frequency of free sugars consumed that determines the severity of decay.
Food and drink to avoid
Now that we #StayHome due to #CoronaVirus pandemic, chances are we snack more than usual. Sugar, cookies, candy intake should be limited; this is because the bacteria in the mouth consume sugar to produce the acids that dissolve enamel. Each time teeth are exposed to sugar, the demineralization process begins, and it can take up to an hour for the mouth to return to normal, non-acidic pH conditions.
Food to Avoid(If you have them, rinse mouth after consumption):
- sodas
- candy
- sweets and sugary snacks
- chocolate
- cookies
- fast food, which is known to contain sugars
Other fermentable carbohydrates are also involved:
- bread
- crackers
- bananas
- breakfast cereals
Some studies show that consumption of fresh fruit are associated with lower levels of dental caries, so the risk is not as high as sugar. Consuming a variety of foods rich in nutrients and avoiding those that contain sugars and starches is important for keeping teeth and gums healthy. Eating healthy is essential in Teeth and Gum care.
Brushing and flossing help get rid of most plaque, but some plaque is more difficult to remove and will harden and form tartar. Only cleaning by a dental professional can remove tartar.
Unremoved plaque and tartar will not only cause decay, but also work its way under the gums and lead to serious gum disease. Eventually, the disease process could become so advanced the only treatment is the extraction of the tooth.
Proper care of the teeth and gums requires minimal time commitment. A healthy diet, a consistent oral home hygiene program, and regular professional cleanings and checkups will keep teeth and gums in excellent shape, and leave you with a beautiful, healthy smile.
Please #StayHome #StaySafe , for sure challenging time of COVID-19 and #CornoVairus pandemic will pass.
Love to all of you, Stay Safe and Keep Smiling
Dr Sh Ayoughi
