We brush and floss our teeth twice a day, morning and night.
Nevertheless, with all of the eating, drinking, and even snogging, it’s no wonder that your teeth are a breeding ground for bacteria.
When braces are involved, you must be considerably more conscientious about dental cleanliness and maintenance.
lDr Sam Jethwa, vice president of the British Association of Cosmetic Dentistry, told Metro.co.uk that our mouths and teeth are a breeding ground for bacteria.
He said: ‘You of course can’t see them, but your mouth and your teeth are home to millions of germs including fungus and bacteria in what is known as the oral microbiome.
‘Although the majority of these microscopic oral bacteria are beneficial to our oral health, others can sadly cause tooth decay and gum disease.
‘Of course, we can regulate the amount of germs in your mouth to ensure a healthy smile with excellent oral care habits and a balanced diet.’
According to Dr. Jethwa, adult tooth-straightening therapy, including braces, has been on the rise in recent years, and this might imply bringing more germs into your mouth.
‘While braces can help teeth to be easier to keep clean in the long term, their structure does make it possible for harmful bacteria to thrive in hard-to-reach areas.
‘It’s therefore vital that patients pay good attention to their teeth with the appropriate dental care whilst wearing braces.’
Moreover, when we kiss someone, we bring new germs into our mouths – albeit this is less likely to affect your teeth.
‘With kissing, we’re transmitting saliva, which might of course carry numerous germs,’ adds Dr. Jethwa. Rather than immediate dental difficulties, you are more likely to develop a virus from this interaction.
So, what is the finest oral hygiene technique? ‘Brushing your teeth twice a day eliminates plaque and debris that can remain in the mouth, causing tooth decay and foul odours,’ explains Dr. Jethwa.
‘Although electric toothbrushes have been clinically proved to eliminate more bacteria, it is recommended that you replace the head of your toothbrush every three or four months – or when the bristles get splayed.’
And, as your dentist will tell you every time you come, you must floss.
‘Flossing is another component of oral care that everyone should perform, but many neglect or assume they don’t have time for.
‘Flossing is essential because it eliminates plaque and debris that might stay in the mouth and cause tooth decay and germs to grow. Tongue scraping is also an essential aspect of dental hygiene; tongue scrapers are particularly intended to remove microorganisms off the tongue.’
Dr. Jethwa also suggests visiting your dentist twice a year.
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