Tooth Decay, The Facts

by: MaryEvans
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In today's society we are judged on how we look. If we do not look good then we must be failures. People are always looking for the next best products for their skin, hair and bodies. This obsession on how we look is blamed on TV advertising, celebrities and magazines. It goes without saying that the majority of people do look after their hair, skin, bodies and nails. One area that should be a priority that is often overlooked is dental hygiene. Regular dental hygiene is more important than just having white teeth.

As a child a visit to the dentist is often met with fear and dread. I used to hate the foul tasting treatments with fluoride that I suffered, and the seemingly constant inspections. It is with regret that I have to say that my teeth today are in a poor condition. This is through my own carelessness with my dental routine as well as a liking for eating anything sugary.

The main cause of tooth decay is bacteria. Bacteria in our mouth is caused by the food we eat, and if we do not brush our teeth regularly after food, then bacteria forms. There are many chemicals formed from the bacterial action in our mouths. There are around five hundred different chemicals formed and the most damaging one is acid. If this problem is not controlled then this can lead to cavities and in turn decay.

The name of this harmful bacteria is "Streptococcus Mutans". The occurrence of decay does not happen overnight, it can take quite a long time as the outside layer of the tooth (enamel) is hard while the inside is soft. It can take years for the bacteria to attack and wear away the enamel, once this has happened the centre of the tooth is attacked and because of it's texture succumbs to decay a lot quicker.

The tiny space between teeth is where the first signs of decay are usually found. This can be easily treated by using the most effective method around - flossing. It is vital that we still brush our teeth but must follow this with flossing. This has been proved to be the best way clean inbetween teeth thoroughly.

Mouthwash is also an essential part of good dental hygiene. It has an anti-bacterial action as well as freshening breath. The anti-bacterial action fights the bacteria left in the mouth after brushing and flossing, further reducing the chances of decay. Some people do not like the taste of mouthwash but there is such a large choice that there is something to suit everyone's taste.

Avoiding tooth decay can be quite simple, just try to avoid all the culprits. Try to remove as much sugar from ones diet as possible, not forgetting that a lot of foods have hidden sugars. Do not take fluoride tablets as it is present in most water supplies, and also in found in toothpaste. Too much fluoride can be as harmful as too little. Don't smoke as this has been found to increase the risks of tooth decay. Last but not least, not brushing and flossing teeth are the main contributors to cavities.

Having a poor dental hygiene routine is what eventually leads to decay and bad breath. If we all learnt how to look after our teeth properly, and followed the advice of our dentists, then we would not need to visit him so often for unpleasant treatments.

About the Author

To find out more about tooth care and such things as teeth whitening visit http://www.teeth-whitening4u.com/  

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