A quick guide to a healthy mouth
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Transcript of A quick guide to a healthy mouth
A quick guide to a healthy mouth
Eurico Martins
Portuguese
Married and dad of twin boys aged 3 ½
Dentist since 2006
Studying for a Masters degree at Edinburgh University
Why is it important to have a healthy mouth?
Feel comfortable and without pain
Chew and speak properly
Smile confidently
To have a healthy body
What are the most common dental diseases?
Decay, cavities ( Caries )
Gum disease ( Gingivitis and Periodontitis )
What is the cause?
Poor oral hygiene leads to build up of bacterial plaque
Bacteria uses what we eat and produces sticky acid which breaks down the tooth and harms the gums
There is one VERY BIG problem which is not caused by bacterial
plaque.
Dental Erosion: tooth is being washed away by acid -> will become smaller, brittle and sensitive
Acid can come from the inside (reflux problems or eating disorder) or from the outside in what you eat and drink
Examples of acidic food and drink
Fizzy drinks including diet version and energy drinksFruit juices including diluted squashVinegar, salad dressings, ketchup
Sour and tangy sweetsYogurt, pickles, citrus fruits
What else is really bad for your health?
Stained and yellow teeth
Bad breath
Less saliva
Gum disease
CANCER
How do we prevent problems?
Brush thoroughly twice a day: last thing at night and on one other occasion.
Use toothpaste with fluoride (at least 1350 ppm).
Spit out after brushing but do not rinse with water.
Have less amount and less times sugary food and drink. Preferably only at mealtimes and no more than 4 times per day.
Your mouth is worth a fortune!
You WILL appreciate a healthy mouth for the
rest of your life.
Thank you very much for listening