Gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases, are usually caused by a build-up of bacteria and plaque that inflames and infects the gums. Plaque is a clear film on the teeth to which bacteria sticks, and if it’s not removed with brushing and flossing, it will turn into a hard material called tartar. Tartar and bacteria deposits around and under the gum line are the main causes of periodontal diseases.

There are two types of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Gingivitis is a milder form of gum disease, in which gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily.
• Periodontitis is a much more serious oral health condition in which the inflammation spreads deep below the gum line and involves the bone and tissues that hold teeth in place. Periodontitis can cause deep pockets of infection, which may result in the loss of teeth and their surrounding bone if it’s left untreated.

Fortunately, there are several procedures available to treat these oral health problems, depending on the severity of the disease.

The primary goal of any treatment for periodontal disease is to control and eliminate the tartar and bacterial infection around the teeth and under the gums. Treatments range from deep cleanings to oral surgery.

Periodontal Disease Prevention

• Brush your teeth after every meal.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Fillings used to treat cavities have come a long way, and today there are many options beyond traditional metal fillings.

Cavities, also called caries or tooth decay, develop when plaque damages the enamel that protects the outer surface of the teeth.

If you have cavities, it is important to have them treated by a dentist as soon as possible. Without prompt treatment, cavities can eventually progress and affect the delicate tissue and nerves deep within your teeth. When cavities are treated early, serious complications, such as nerve damage and tooth loss can be prevented.

What’s the single best way to avoid having bad breath? The answer’s simple—by maintaining good oral hygiene every day.

The Basics Are Still Best

Brush. Floss. Rinse. It sounds pretty simple, yet it’s the best routine to help you win the battle against bad breath. These easy steps will help you get the most from your dental health routine:

• Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with an Oral-B Electric Toothbrush to remove plaque bacteria. Follow up with a good tongue brushing. Pay special attention to the back of your tongue, where most odor-causing bacteria are found.
• Floss effectively to help remove food particles. If reaching back teeth is difficult, a floss holder can help.
• Round out your routine with a mouthwash that fights bad breath to keep your mouth at its freshest.

Other Ways to Protect Against Bad Breath

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. The amount of water you need will vary based on your physical build and daily activity level.
• Chew sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production. Eating a mint is a temporary but less recommended method for breath freshening because it can leave a sugary residue behind.
• Chronic bad breath may be a symptom of a more serious condition, so you should consult a dental or medical professional.
• Learn which foods can cause bad breath.
• Consider limiting behaviors that can intensify bad breath, such as drinking alcohol or smoking.

Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a plastic material usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) where decay occurs most often.

Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. But toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food.

Sealants are easy for your dentist to apply. The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and may last several years before a reapplication is needed. During your regular dental visits, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.

The likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. But adults can benefit from sealants as well.