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How
does plaque cause tooth decay? |
| What
is a cavity? |
| How
can I prevent cavities from developing? |
| How
often should I visit the dentist? |
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| The reason
we brush and floss is to remove plaque, a colorless,
sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on
teeth. Plaque is one of the main causes of tooth
decay. Dentists use the word “caries” to describe
tooth decay. |
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| How
does plaque cause tooth decay? |
| The bacteria
in plaque react with sugar in the foods we eat to
produce acids that can attack and weaken tooth enamel
(the hard, protective covering on our teeth), opening
the way for cavities to develop. |
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| What
is a cavity? |
| A cavity is
the space inside a tooth that remains once decay
is removed. There are three different places where
a tooth can experience decay. |
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Decay on
the biting surfaces of the teeth occurs when plaque
becomes trapped in the grooves. This is most common
in children because they often miss these areas
when brushing. |
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Decay between the
teeth occurs when plaque is left to build up on
these hard to reach surfaces. These areas cannot
be reached by a toothbrush alone and may develop
if you do not floss, or clean between your teeth,
regularly.
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Decay at the root surfaces
of the teeth occurs if you have suffered gum recession
or bone loss, often associated with gum disease,
or periodontitis.
It is also more common as you get older because
gums have started to recede. If plaque is left to
build up on the exposed roots of the teeth, which
are not protected with enamel, then cavities will
quickly develop. |
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| How
can I prevent cavities from developing? |
| Fortunately,
you can easily prevent cavities from developing
if you practice a proper oral care routine. Here
is a checklist of must-do’s: |
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Brush
thoroughly twice a day, with a soft bristled
toothbrush - preferably in the morning and
before bed |
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Use
a fluoride toothpaste - fluoride is proven
to help prevent cavities |
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Clean
between your teeth daily to remove plaque
from areas your toothbrush can't reach |
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Eat
a healthy diet and avoid frequent snacking
on sugary foods and drinks |
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Visit
your dentist and hygienist regularly - at
least once every six months, for a cleaning
and exam |
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Dentists
recommend that you change your toothbrush
at least every three months or earlier if
the toothbrush looks worn, because research
shows that a new toothbrush can remove more
plaque than one that's three months old1 |
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| 1 |
Warren PR et
al. J Clin Dent 2002; 13: 119 - 124 |
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| How
often should I visit the dentist? |
| You should
plan on seeing your dentist and hygienist twice
a year for checkups. While checkups can vary, your
dentist will most likely examine your teeth and
gums for any visible problems. He or she may also
take x-rays to make sure there aren't any hidden
problems. Your dentist or hygienist may also professionally
clean your teeth (also called a prophylaxis) to
remove hardened plaque (tartar) from above and below
the gumline, as well as polish them to remove plaque
and stains from the tooth surface. And don't forget:
your dentist and hygienist can also provide expert
instruction on brushing and flossing. |
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