Week 3 | some common oral health problems
broken tooth icon
*Some common teeth problems*
This week we’re looking at some of the most common teeth and gum related problems, how you can identify them, how to prevent them and what to do about them.
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What is plaque?
image of plaque on tooth
Dental plaque is a sticky, colourless or pale yellow film that is constantly forming on your teeth. When saliva, food and fluids combine, plaque - which contains bacteria - forms between your teeth and along the gum line.
Dental plaque begins forming on teeth four to 12 hours after brushing, which is why it is so important to brush thoroughly at least twice a day and clean between your teeth
daily with floss or interdental brushes.
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Why is plaque bad?
Plaque is the root cause of many oral health issues including cavities and gingivitis – gum disease.
If you leave plaque on your teeth it can harden into tartar which can only be removed by the dental team.
Plaque can contribute to bad breath and can make your teeth look dingy and yellow. But more importantly, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel causing cavities (holes in your teeth).
It can also lead to gum disease, also known as gingivitis, which, if untreated can lead to bone loss around the teeth and eventual tooth loss.
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How do I know if I have gum disease?
image of gum disease
Gum disease is generally painless, even though it damages the bone supporting the teeth.
The condition will usually show itself as red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth.
Many people are worried when they notice their gums are bleeding so brush more gently, or stop brushing altogether.
It is important that you continue to clean regularly and thoroughly if you are to fight
gum disease.
If the bleeding does not go away within a few days see your dental team to ask for their advice.
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How can I prevent gum disease?
It is important to remove plaque and bits of food from around your teeth as this will stop your gums from becoming inflamed and swollen and becoming infected.
If you leave plaque on your teeth it can harden into tartar which can only be removed by your dental team.
It's important to keep up your regular dental appointments so that your teeth can have a thorough cleaning if they need it.
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Next week . .
Looking after our teeth starts right at the beginning so next week we’re looking at how to care for your oral health during pregnancy.
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*We hope you're finding these emails helpful.*
*Until next time.*
*Derbyshire County Council*
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