Top 7 Facts Dentist Wants You To Know

1. Brushing twice a day helps to keep the cavities away

When you brush your teeth properly, at least twice a day, you are removing the plaque that causes cavities. Plaque is the soft and sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth from food debris and bacteria. 

Flossing daily will remove the plaque from in between the teeth that the toothbrush cannot reach. Removing plaque from your teeth also helps to prevent gum disease.

2. Bad breath could be the result of a dental problem

Most people with persistent bad breath have a dental condition that is to blame. If bad breath is the cause of a dental condition, mouthwash will only mask the odor and not cure it. 

Don’t be embarrassed to talk to your dentist, they are there to help you. Flossing daily and brushing your teeth & tongue twice a day can greatly reduce and possibly eliminate bad breath.

3. Proper nutrition is important for good dental health

The sugars from soft drinks and some food combine with the bacteria in our mouths which produces acids that attack tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities and gum disease. 

Limiting the amount of beverages and foods that are high in sugar can greatly help to maintain good dental health.

4. Change your toothbrush

Manual toothbrushes become worn out after about 3 months and are not as effective as they once were. If you have gum disease, you should change your toothbrush every 4 - 6 weeks. 

Because bacteria can harbor in the bristles, you should always rinse your toothbrush out with hot water after every use and change it after you have been sick.

5. Have more food high in calcium

Calcium is one of the main elements that constitute bones and teeth. If short of calcium, enamel will experience dysplasia and prone to induce caries, loose sclerous tissues and etc. 

Eating something like milk, shrimps and bean products can help you grow strong teeth.

6. Gum (Periodontal) disease affects your overall health

Gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in adults and has also been linked to heart disease and strokes. If diagnosed in the early stage, gingivitis can be treated and reversed. If treatment is not received, a more serious and advanced stage of gum disease, called periodontitis, which includes bone loss, may follow. 

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and getting regular dental check ups and cleanings are the best prevention against gum disease.

7. Dental cleanings and check ups are extremely important

Going to the dentist for regular check ups & cleanings is one of the most important factors in maintaining good oral health. Regular check ups can prevent cavities, root canals, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental conditions. Don’t wait until you have a problem.

Dr. YAN Jun

Title: Deputy Chief Physician

Department: Dental

Expertise:

Orthodontic treatment, teeth whitening, periodontal disease, dental defect, dentition defect and edentulous.

Experience:

Dr. YAN has over 20 years of clinical experience in the field of dentistry. She furthered her study at Sichuan University, West China University of Medical Sciences, and The Fourth Military Medical University. Dr. YAN specializes in treating periodontal disease, dental defect, dentition defect and edentulous. She is also skilled in comprehensive and interceptive orthodontic treatment and teeth whitening. She is a member of World Dental Federation (FDI), International College of Dentists (ICD), Chinese Stomatological Association (CSA).