From poor oral hygiene to a bad diet, our teeth can be damaged by numerous factors. As you push through your daily activities, it’s easy to forget about protecting your teeth from these risks.
But the good news is that with consistent start-to-finish oral care, you can maintain healthy teeth while keeping damages at bay.
The Latest Stats on Damaged Teeth
The way we look after our teeth has undergone significant change over the years. Even so, almost every adult has one or multiple damaged teeth that require treatment, restoration, or replacement.
According to recent statistics, which highlights the treatment required for over three million people, tooth decay is the most prevalent oral issue on the planet. Over 90% of adults located in the US have at least one damaged or decaying tooth. This indicates that we need a solution that can help us subvert these problems.
Risks of Damaged Teeth
There are numerous risks associated with damaged teeth. When teeth aren’t cleaned properly, the food will linger on them and gradually begin to wear down the enamel, leading to the formation of plaque.
Plaque accumulates on your teeth regularly to collect bacteria, and this can lead to many risks, including tooth decay, bad breath, swollen gums, and weakened teeth.
Besides, if the teeth are already damaged, there’s a chance that the enamel is broken down, which can expose the nerves. When you eat food which is too sweet, sour, or acidic, it heightens the likelihood of experiencing a toothache.
Even worse, damaged teeth can also lead to infections such as abscesses or serious cavities. Therefore, it’s essential to take measures that can prevent these risks.
The Significance of Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is a sincere and very effective first step towards keeping your teeth in optimal health for longer. It should revolve around a few habits that you should practice routinely to ensure that your teeth stay healthy. These habits include:.
1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Brush your teeth frequently, particularly after meals, to avoid plaque accumulation. Use appropriate toothpaste and toothbrush, and make sure you rinse your mouth thoroughly.
2. Floss at least once daily
To supplement your brushing habits, flossing should also be one of your regular oral care routines. Flossing guarantees that rigid debris is removed from between your teeth, which may not be apparent when you brush.
3. Watch your food intake
Consuming a healthy diet rich in natural foods can help preserve our teeth. Steer clear of foods and beverages that can be harmful to your teeth, like soda, sugary drinks, acidic foods, and snacks like candy and chips.
4. Hydrate properly
Proper hydration is essential for the general health of our teeth and well-being as a whole. Drinking water regularly keeps the mouth clean and minimizes the risk of bacteria and plaque buildup. So, keep that bottle close for a clean mouth.
5. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings
A professional cleaning every six months, combined with periodic check-ups every one to two years, can help identify any problems before they turn into major issues.
During these check-ups, a dentist can discover cavities, gum swelling, and other oral issues, which may not be apparent outwardly.
Conclusion
Your oral health is fundamental. Taking good care of it from a young age can keep your teeth healthy and minimize risks.
Practicing excellent oral hygiene habits, avoiding harmful foods and drinks, and regular dental check-ups are all simple yet effective ways of preventing damage to your teeth from turning into severe problems.