2. Brushing Technique
• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree
angle to the gums.
• Gently move the brush back and
forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer surfaces, the inner
surfaces, and the chewing surfaces
of the teeth.
• To clean the inside surfaces of the
front teeth, tilt the brush vertically
and make several up-and-down
strokes.
3. • Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size
and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to
reach all areas easily.
• Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner
if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job
of cleaning your teeth.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste.
6. The mouth is both the primary pathway into the body and an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. oral bacteria and
inflammation associated with gum disease may contribute to any number of serious conditions, including:
Endocarditis. This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves, which can occur when bacteria or
germs from your mouth spread through your bloodstream and attach to specific areas in your heart.
Cardiovascular disease. While the connection is still being studied, research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries,
and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections of gum disease.
Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis (a severe form of gum disease) has been linked to premature birth and
low birth weight.
Pneumonia. This and other respiratory conditions can be caused when bacteria in your mouth are pulled into your lungs.
Diabetes can be particularly problematic, resulting in a vicious cycle that's difficult to control. People with diabetes are
more susceptible to periodontal disease, making blood sugar management more complicated – and diabetes even worse.
And links to other conditions are also being found, including rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's, and dementia.
9. Bleeding after brushing or flossing
Blood on your toothbrush or in the sink isn’t normal. It could mean you’re developing gum
disease ― also called periodontal disease ― an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in
place. When untreated, gum disease can lead to bone loss around the teeth and eventually tooth
loss. Other signs include red, swollen or tender gums, and discharge between the teeth and
gums.
Receding gums
Some gum recession can be a normal part of the aging process: 88% of people over 65
experience recession around at least one tooth. But recession can also be a sign of gum disease.
Regardless of the cause, retreating gums can expose the delicate roots of teeth, increasing the
risk of decay, infection, pain and tooth loss. When it’s caught early, treatment can stop or even
reverse the process.
Loose or shifting teeth
Adult teeth should last a lifetime. If you notice slight movement or widening gaps, take it
seriously. It could be a sign of infection or bone loss. Also look out for changes in the way your
teeth fit together when you bite, or changes in the fit of partial dentures.
10. Bumps and sores
Common canker sores will clear up on their own in one to two weeks. But other oral
lesions need to be treated. A fungal infection called thrush, or candidiasis, can show
up as white sores on the tongue, inner cheek, tonsils or roof of your mouth. People
with diabetes are more prone to thrush, which thrives on high sugar levels in saliva.
Medicine can treat thrush.
Toothache
Toothaches shouldn’t be ignored. Pain and sensitivity can have many causes: a cavity,
abscess, broken tooth, damaged filling or grinding your teeth. Only your dentist can
determine what’s behind the pain, treat the underlying issue and help you avoid future
problems.
11. Presented by Al Ahli Medical Centre
With our wishes for you happiness and wellness