Good oral health is all about avoiding. Granted, there are many conditions that heighten the possibilities of having problems of a certain kind. Having a genetic tendency to cavities, for example, will make you work even harder to give good maintenance to your teeth. Other conditions of this sort may include a genetic tendency to perio disease, brittleness through osteoporosis, or oral cancer. These are problems that lead to the necessity of sometimes extensive or continual dental care, yet they are often unavoidable, and no matter how meticulous you are with your care they will always cause some kind of trouble. However, we will be focusing on those dental problems that can be avoided and what can be done to do so.
Gum disease
Gum disease is a condition in which your gums exhibit symptoms like redness, bleeding, and inflammation due to the accumulation of plaque around your teeth. This hardened plaque, called calculus, starts to creep beneath the gums, the cause of the irritation, and into the bone. At this stage, the gums begin to recede and expose the root of your tooth. As this happens, the bone also shrinks, and with time, the tooth loses all bone support. At this point, the only option is to extract. Now, recall the cause of the perio disease was the accumulation of plaque. This is 100% avoidable through careful, daily cleaning. Even if you have a tendency to perio, it is easily kept under control through a strict cleaning schedule that includes brushing three times a day and flossing at least once a day. Visiting your dentist for professional cleanings twice per year will also help greatly.
Bad breath
In dental terms, bad breath is called oral halitosis. It is caused by the bacteria that live on the accumulation of plaque and food remains on your gums, tongue, or between your teeth. Oral halitosis is easily avoidable with regular dental cleanings, thorough brushing after meals and using an antibacterial rinse after brushing your teeth. Also, avoiding strong spices can control unwanted odors.
Yellow teeth
There are many reasons why teeth turn yellowish. Age, the use of certain medications, chemotherapy, and certain injuries can cause discoloration of your teeth. However, the most common cause of yellow teeth is a habit. Chewing or smoking tobacco, frequently drinking wine, coffee or tea, drinking colas and artificially-colored candies will stain your teeth. In general, whatever stains a white cloth will also stain your teeth. In addition, plaque and tartar create a film of bacteria that makes teeth look darker. Abstaining from foods and beverages high in chromogens—or pigment-producing substances—as well as foregoing tobacco, will help keep your pearly white smile.
Enamel erosion
The causes of enamel erosion are generally avoidable. Acidic beverages will wear away the outer layer of the tooth known as the enamel. The same applies to beverages or foods high in chemicals and preservatives. Another cause of erosion is recurrent trauma, usually in the form of bruxism. This is a condition in which patients grind or clench their teeth while asleep or while distracted. If you suspect this is your case, you can avoid damage by wearing a protective guard overnight. It is also important to address the factors that trigger the condition, as it is very closely related to high-stress levels.
Patients spend thousands of dollars on restorative work. Although we are a dental clinic in Costa Rica where we offer the best options to repair or restore damage on your teeth at affordable prices, we believe many conditions can be avoided. Giving them regular care will save you thousands and cleaning them often can go a long way. Don´t wait until it is too late! Contact us now to find out how you can keep and protect your teeth.
