Oral health is multifaceted, encompassing the ability to smell, taste, chew, swallow, and smile with confidence, free of discomfort or disease in the craniofacial region. It also plays a significant role in expressing emotions through facial expressions. Oral health is closely connected to systemic health, with links to digestive disorders, strokes, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, metabolic syndromes, pregnancy complications, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, and more recently, COVID-19. This intricate relationship highlights the importance of maintaining optimal oral health to support overall well-being.
Good oral health requires regular, independent self-care and adapting to physiological changes over a lifetime. Preventative dental care includes brushing teeth twice daily for two minutes in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque, which, if left untreated, can harden into calculus and lead to gingivitis. Daily flossing, using water flossers, or other interdental cleaners reduces plaque and gum inflammation. Additional steps include replacing toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months or when bristles become worn, tongue scraping, and maintaining healthy habits like balanced nutrition, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress. Routine dental check-ups are critical for prevention and treatment, ensuring oral health remains optimal.
Oral health extends beyond having cavity-free teeth to maintaining healthy gums. Gum disease progresses through various stages, often initiated by bacterial plaque buildup. Soft plaque, which is removable with proper brushing and flossing, can harden over time into calcified plaque or tartar, requiring specialized dental tools for removal. Bacterial plaque, both soft and calcified, is the primary cause of gum disease and underlines the importance of consistent oral hygiene practices to prevent its accumulation.
The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is often caused by poor oral hygiene. It manifests as inflammation localized to the gums without affecting tooth support. Early signs include gingival bleeding, red and swollen gums, and mild sensitivity. Identifying and addressing these symptoms promptly can prevent the progression to more severe stages of gum disease, emphasizing the critical role of preventative measures and regular dental care.
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Cubillos Morales, N. (2023, March 21). The 4 Stages of Gum Disease: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment. World of Dentistry. https://worldofdentistry.org/stages-of-gum-disease/#What_are_Gum_Diseases