3 Ways To Promote Healthy Teeth And Gums
Tooth decay and gum disease are usually caused by acid that is released by microorganisms in your mouth. When oral bacteria feed on the carbohydrates in your mouth, they release acid as a byproduct of glycolysis, which is their digestive process. The acid demineralizes teeth by dissolving tooth enamel. In addition, sensitive gum tissue becomes inflamed.
Brushing and flossing help remove bacteria, plaque and acid from your mouth. However, in addition to brushing and flossing, there are other things you can do at home to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Here are a few:
Replace soda with black tea.
Although you may enjoy drinking sodas, the acid in these fizzy drinks demineralizes teeth in the same manner as that of oral bacteria. In addition, if your drink is not artificially sweetened, it contains sugar that feeds oral bacteria and promotes the release of more acid.
Sodas can be replaced with black tea. Iced tea is often paired with a meal, so the switch should not be difficult. Tea has been found to have anti-bacterial components that prevent the growth of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus, which are oral bacteria that promote tooth decay. To receive the protective benefits of tea, you should consume at least three or four cups a day.
Chew gum sweetened with xylitol.
Chewing sugarless gum mechanically pulls plaque, bacteria and particles of food from the surface of your teeth and gums. However, if the gum is sweetened with xylitol, it can also help discourage the growth of oral bacteria.
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has antibacterial properties. It has been shown to decrease the ability of decay-causing bacteria to stick to teeth.
Use a fluoride rinse.
Fluoride not only remineralizes tooth enamel, it also makes oral bacteria more sensitive to acid. This sensitivity stops the bacteria from feeding, so the number of bacteria is reduced. In addition, the overall amount of acid in the mouth is decreased, because the bacteria are no longer undergoing glycolysis.
If a commercial fluoride rinse is not available, you can rinse with tap water. Most tap water contains small amounts of fluoride. Be sure to swish vigorously to dislodge any debris that may be stuck between the teeth or on the surface of the teeth and gums.
In addition to measures that you can take at home, be sure to visit your dentist at least once every six months for a dental checkup and professional cleaning. If you have not visited a dentist recently, schedule an appointment today with a dentist like McMillin Jeff DDS.
Share
