Basic dental care to avoid Big Oral problems

Do you know that a decayed teeth can lead to a heart attack or stroke?  Yes, those with gum diseases, have twice the risk of a fatal heart attack than those with a healthy gum. Your oral hygiene gives not only a priceless big smile but an overall healthy life!

Oral health is still neglected in India which reflects through some data like only 2% of Indian population regularly visits dentist and only 50% Indians use a toothbrush. And, as a result, 95% of the Indian population suffers from ‘Periodontal Diseases’ (a chronic inflammatory ailment that destructs the tissues and structures around the teeth, in general Gum diseases). The bacteria in dental plaques causes the disease affecting the gums, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. The quality of life gets threatened if these are not treated on time and gradual loss of teeth can lead to edentulism (toothless condition).

Some common problems related to tooth are -  

• Plaque  
• Tartar
• Enamel Erosion
• Decayed teeth
• Cavity
• Sensitivity
• Gum Bleeding

Prevention of Dental Problems with Basic Care

Taking care of oral health is not a very tiring task. A little awareness and conscious effort can save you from various oral diseases and other severe diseases caused due to unhealthy oral practices. Let’s start with following the basic care that can be included in our daily habits to avoid those serious health issues-

Ø  Even a child knows that brushing twice a day (In the morning and after dinner) keeps your teeth and gums healthy. But don’t get attached to your brush too much! Change them in every 3 months as the frayed bristles do not serve the purpose of brushing. 

Ø  But only brushing is not enough as your toothbrush is unable to reach the gaps between the teeth. Flossing can prevent formation of plaques thus preventing decay, cavities and gum diseases.

Ø  It’s equally important to kill the germs and bacteria inside the lining of the mouth. So rinsing your mouth after each meal is suggested. Use a good mouthwash to swish every day after brushing. 

Ø  Keep check on what you eat and drink! Carbohydrate rich junk food and fast foods should be avoided to avert dental cavities. Too much coffee, tea and aerated drinks also affect your dental health. 

Ø  Over 90% of the oral cancer cases reported each year in India, are due to tobacco use. So you know, what has to be your healthy choice!\

Ø  Do make a habit to visit your dentist twice a year as more than 90% of the systemic diseases of human body have oral manifestations. Your dentist can diagnose and be the first healthcare provider in such cases. 

Ø  The bacteria in our tongue is the production house of volatile sulphur compounds which leads to bad breath. Regular usage of tongue cleaner will eliminate the undigested food particles along with bad breath. 

Right techniques of brushing

You’re never old enough to learn the right brushing techniques. So, let’s know it from a Dentist (Click to see the video). The main aim of brushing is to remove the dirt and remaining food particles. So, choosing the right kind of brush for your mouth size and shape is crucial. The hard brush is not good for anyone, so better go for the medium or smooth type of bristles with flexible neck. The brush is not meant to hurt the gums so practice a small circular motion. There’s a myth that the more you brush the stronger and cleaner are your teeth! But brushing more than twice a day can sometimes harm your gums as well as teet

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

It is equally important to know the right toothpaste for you. You will be spoilt with variety of choices considering the brands of toothpaste available in the Indian market. However, all toothpastes are not meant for everyone. Here again, you can consult your dentist before finalising the brand and type. Even though there are common ingredients in most of the toothpaste brands, you might need special ingredient depending on your dental health. For example, if you have yellow tooth, the whitening products will be your choice and those with sensitive tooth will require a different one. However, never give the same toothpaste you use to your kid below 2 years age. The fluoride level of the toothpastes meant for kids is much lower than the Adults.

Diet for Oral Health

·                     Have lots of water throughout the day.

·             Low-fat, fat-free dairy foods, fibre rich foods, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dry beans, legumes and foods with lean source of protein like soy, skinless poultry and fish are good for oral health.

·                     Avoid processed foods with high sugar content.

·                     Probiotics in any form is good for oral health. 

The importance of teeth is best known to those who have lost them! Don’t wait for the maximum damage to visit a Dentist. Even a little sensitivity and pain in gum should be consulted with a Dentist so that the problem can be addressed and treated at the initial stage so that you can enjoy a healthy life! Don’t be afraid of your dentist. He/she is there to give you relief from pain and make you smile.