What is…
Taking Care of Your Teeth
To take care of your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene, it’s important to practice the following habits on a daily basis:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and make sure to brush for at least two minutes.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
- Limit sugary drinks and snacks, as sugar can contribute to tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and bacteria.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.
By following these simple steps, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Tooth Decay
Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria, sugary foods and drinks, and poor oral hygiene.
When you eat sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in your mouth produce acid as a byproduct. This acid can dissolve the hard outer layer of your teeth (called enamel), leading to the formation of a cavity.
If you don’t brush and floss regularly, the bacteria and plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) can build up on your teeth, increasing your risk of developing a cavity.
Additionally, certain medical conditions and medications can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth, which can make it more difficult for your mouth to neutralize the acid produced by bacteria. This can also increase your risk of developing a cavity.
To help prevent cavities, it’s important to brush and floss regularly, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.
Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure used to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. The procedure is typically performed by an endodontist or a general dentist.
Here is an overview of the steps involved in a root canal procedure:
- The area around the tooth is numbed using local anesthesia.
- An opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the inside of the tooth.
- The infected or damaged tissue inside the tooth (called the pulp) is removed using small instruments.
- The inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria or debris.
- The inside of the tooth is filled with a special material to help support and protect the tooth.
- The opening in the top of the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown (a cap that covers the tooth).
The root canal procedure usually takes one to two visits to complete, depending on the complexity of the case. After the procedure, it is normal to have some discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. Your dentist or endodontist will provide you with specific instructions for caring for the tooth after the procedure.
It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to help ensure the best possible outcome from your root canal.