Tooth decay is found in 60 to 90 percent of school-age children and in all adults. While experts draw attention to the importance of using dental floss and an interproximal brush against the danger of tooth decay, they also emphasize brushing the teeth at least twice a day. Cleaning the teeth regularly reduces the formation of dental plaque while also strengthening the tooth enamel. According to the statistical data of the World Health Organization, more than a third of the human population lives with tooth decay. Dentrum, Adana's leading oral and dental health polyclinic, explained the importance of oral hygiene against tooth decay for you.
Looking at the Turkey Oral and Dental Health Research Report published by the Ministry of Health before the pandemic process that affected the whole world, it is seen that the most common health problem is tooth decay.
Plaque Produces Acids That Damage Tooth Enamel
The most basic cause of tooth decay is the formation of bacterial plaque. These plaques feed on the food and drinks we constantly consume and secrete acids that damage our tooth enamel. The most basic thing we need to do to prevent the formation and accumulation of plaque is to ensure our oral hygiene. Adopting a healthy eating habit, using fluoride, and regular dental check-ups are also the basic precautions we can take against decay.
Do Not Neglect to Brush Your Teeth "At Least Twice" a Day
Tooth decay cases, which are at the level of 60-90 percent in school-age children, are seen in almost all adults. It is also among the data that 30 percent of people in the 65-74 age range have no natural teeth. The basic method of protecting against tooth decay is simple. Perhaps it is neglected because it is simple. However, brushing the teeth at least twice a day is the best thing we can do to prevent plaque formation on the tooth surfaces and therefore tooth decay. Of course, we should not leave our work to chance and should not be satisfied with brushing alone. Using dental floss, an interproximal brush, and mouthwash, and going to routine dental check-ups are also important. The more we can prevent plaque formation, the more we strengthen our tooth enamel.
By ensuring oral hygiene, we protect not only our teeth but also our general health. In addition, we can prevent problems such as bad breath. According to World Health Organization data, we should not forget that more than a third of the human population lives with tooth decay, and we should always pay attention to oral hygiene.
Sugar Consumption Is the Number One Risk Factor for Decay
It is important to limit sugary foods and drinks or to quit them altogether if possible. Because the sugar in the foods we consume is the basic cause of tooth decay cases. Sugary foods, which lead to the production of acids by feeding the bacteria in our mouth, indirectly weaken our tooth enamel. It is beneficial to create a balanced eating routine consisting of protein, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products instead of refined sugary foods. We can also suppress the craving for sugar by increasing our daily water consumption.
Following the Dentist's Recommendations and Using Fluoride
The mineral fluoride strengthens our tooth enamel and provides effective protection against decay. It has been scientifically proven that fluoride, found in toothpastes and oral care products, reduces the risk of decay. Fluoride, which increases the resistance of tooth enamel against acids, is one of the most important helpers for our oral and dental health. In addition, going to regular dental check-ups and following the recommendations is another point you need to pay attention to.
Dental Check-up at Least Twice a Year
Going to dental check-ups regularly is definitely a habit we need to acquire. Routine dental examinations give the chance to diagnose possible decay or other health problems early and apply treatment. Do not neglect to go for a dental examination within six-month periods.
To access useful tips about oral and dental health, you can follow the blog page of Adana Private Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic Dentrum.
