Your teeth are living tissues that are key components of your skeletal system, and they play a key role in digestion. Teeth must be in good shape to bite and chew food properly.
Any issues with the teeth can cause serious pain and headaches, and infections of the mouth can spread to other areas of the body. This is why oral health is so important.
Let’s talk about some of the basic facts of dental and oral health, the diseases that target them, and how to keep your mouth healthy.
Maintaining Optimum Oral Health
The reason why dentists and dental professionals harp about brushing your teeth at least twice a day is because this action removes bacterial film called plaque. If plaque remains on your teeth, it eventually becomes hardened into tartar, which is very difficult to remove. Flossing is also necessary to reach areas that brushing cannot cover, such as the junctions between adjacent teeth.
Likewise, be sure to brush with toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride binds with enamel, making it more resistant to bacterial attack.
As much as possible, stay away from high-sugar foods. These include food and drinks that tend to stick on tooth surfaces, such as sugary sodas and hard candy. Drinking water naturally helps to rinse away much of what you eat and drink, so water is preferable for maintaining excellent oral health – and overall health.
Dental Disorders and Tooth Infections
Many dental disorders come from the inability to control bacterial growth in the mouth. For example, tooth decay occurs when bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth’s outer surfaces and create cavities. If bacteria reach the pulp in the inner tooth, they can cause inflammation and spread the infection to nearby tissues.
When bacteria grow on the gumline, they can cause the immune system to mount a response, resulting in inflammation. This inflammation of the gums is gingivitis, which can lead to bleeding and painful gums.
If gingivitis is left untreated, the bacteria may move deeper into the teeth. The infection can destroy gum tissue and bone. This stage of bacterial invasion is called periodontal disease. If you don’t seek prompt treatment by a dentist, you may lose the affected tooth.
Comprehensive Dental and Oral Health Care in Minneapolis-St. Paul
Be sure to visit a dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups in order to maintain optimum oral health and healthy teeth. If you are experiencing symptoms of oral disease, such as a toothache or bleeding gums, see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment.
Conveniently located in St. Paul, Minnesota, Hagerman Dental Care is here to help you and your whole family maintain beautiful smiles and excellent oral health. We provide cleanings, checkups, and restorative and cosmetic dental services of all kinds.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hagerman, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (651) 646-2392 or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your family’s partner in dental health!