Bacteria in the teeth are no different from bacteria that thrive elsewhere. They love dark environments and can attack without you noticing them right away. They love your mouth because it is moist, and when you have a sweet tooth, they will definitely find a place to nourish and grow even further. Once they stay on your mouth over time, they will cause dental plaque that eventually leads to tooth decay, and gum disease.
How Do Bacterial Plaque Buildup?
Bacteria can accumulate on the teeth. When there, they use food and drinks that you have consumed in order to produce acids. The plaque becomes sticky thus keeping the acids on the surface of your tooth, which can further break down the enamel. This acid is commonly produced after eating. This means that every time you eat, plaque buildup follows within 20 minutes. The plaque comes with dangerous consequences.
Weak Tooth Enamel
Bacterial acids can weaken the tooth enamel. This can worsen and lead to tooth decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen the weakened enamel and protect it from further destruction. Aside from toothpastes, there are also mouthrinses and supplements that contain fluoride. Fluoridated water are also available. Just ask your dentist about the best option for you and your family.
Gum Disease
Bacterial acids can also lead to gum tissue and bone infection. Remember that when plaque is not removed from the teeth, the tendency is it hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar buildup is the reason why bacterial plaque thrive and in turn causes gum disease. Gum disease can worsen depending on how soon you undergo dental checkup.
When you have gum disease or gingivitis, you will notice that your gums easily bleed and swell, while they also become red. This is because of the inflammation caused by the plaque that has adhered to the tooth and the gumline. At the worst, tartar and plaque will attack the ligaments and bones surrounding the teeth. When this happens, the more advanced stage of gum disease may take place. The only option for you when you suffer from this problem is to undergo periodontal disease treatment.
Important Things to Consider to Get Rid of These Consequences
Bacteria buildup can be avoided simply by starting with the regular oral health care routine. Brushing twice a day, paying particular attention to plaque around the gumline, is recommended. Make sure that you replace your toothbrush as often as possible. Together with this, you must also floss once a day. This is important in removing debris and plaque from hard-to-reach surfaces.
It is also crucial to reduce your carbohydrate intake, especially your consumption of refined sugar. When you do so, you reduce the chances of bacteria to produce acids. Eat a diet rich in proteins and dairy, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables. Munch on yogurt, natural peanut butter, and cheese during snack time.
Regular dental cleaning must also be included in your list of considerations. Your dentist will be able to remove plaque and tartar even before they cause gum disease. This will also be a way for your dentist to detect and treat gum or tooth decay problems even before they become serious.