Your Teeth Are an Ecosystem
Your teeth are a complex ecosystem. This means that they are a community of organisms (the bacteria and fungi) living together in an environment (the tooth enamel). The bacteria and fungi in your mouth keep harmful bacteria at bay and produce nutrients for you to keep healthy teeth and gums.
If you have a bad toothbrush or toothpaste, or fail to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, you damage or destroy the bacteria in your mouth and make it easier for harmful bacteria to grow.
When harmful bacteria grow, they produce acids that cause tooth decay.
What Happens When Your Teeth Are Not Cleaned?
When you choose to skip a dental cleaning, harmful bacteria begin to grow and consume the minerals in your teeth. As these acidic bacteria grow, they produce acids that erode the tooth enamel.
This is the process of tooth decay. Over time, this acid eating away at your teeth can cause tooth sensitivity, tooth loss, and even tooth fracture.
If you noticed the first signs of decay, you are lucky! When your teeth are not cleaned, the bacteria can continue to produce acids damaging your teeth and gums further. These early stages of decay are easily prevented with a regular dental cleaning.
The Signs of Decay Before You Develop Decay
When you dont brush your teeth or clean them regularly, the bacteria in your mouth produce acids that damage the tooth enamel.
The tooth enamel is the outer shell of your teeth, and is what protects your teeth from the inside of your mouth. When the enamel is damaged, another part of your teeth can become exposed, like the nerves or blood vessels.
This damage to your teeth can lead to tooth sensitivity, tooth fracture, and even early signs of gum disease.
When you visit your dentist regularly, he or she can examine your teeth and take x-rays to check for decay. The dentist can also remove any badly damaged tooth areas and provide fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth.
The Dangers of Decay
The more often you visit the dentist, the more likely it is that you will maintain good dental health. If you develop tooth decay, you may need extensive treatment like dental crowns, dental bridges, or dental implants.
In addition to dental health issues, many people are unaware that tooth decay is a risk factor for many other health issues, including:
Abdominal pain
Lower Back Pain
Oral Cancer
Severe Mouth Ulcers
Stroke
Diabetes
Decay Takes Hold in the Gums
When your teeth arent cleaned, harmful bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at your tooth enamel in the gums.
If not treated, this damage to the gums can cause gum disease. This is a serious oral health issue because gum disease can lead to tooth loss and even toothless smiles. If you have any signs of gum disease, like bleeding gums, you should seek prompt medical attention.
Conclusion
Dont wait until your teeth are damaged to get them cleaned. Regular cleanings can prevent tooth decay and keep your gums healthy.
Your dentist can recommend the best brushing and flossing techniques to get the most out of your brushing and flossing sessions.
If you notice any signs of decay, such as tooth sensitivity or tooth fracture, get your teeth cleaned right away. Dental cleanings can prevent tooth decay and serious dental health issues. Make sure youre brushing and flossing regularly to prevent tooth decay and protect your smile.
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