Dental Care

Dental care refers to the maintenance of healthy teeth and may refer to:

• Oral hygiene, the practice of keeping the mouth and teeth clean in order to prevent dental disorders
• Dentistry, the professional care of teeth, including professional oral hygiene and dental surgery

Overview

Dental care involves taking good care of one's teeth, gums, and related structures of the mouth. Maintaining good dental health is crucial to avoid dental caries (commonly known as cavities) and periodontal disease (gum disease), which can lead to severe discomfort, pain, and even tooth loss. Regular visits to a dentist are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. In between those visits, there are simple steps that each person can take to greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Preventive Care

Preventive dental care includes several practices to keep teeth healthy. This includes:

• Tooth brushing: Brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing: Daily flossing to remove plaque and food particles between teeth
• Dental cleanings: Regular cleanings by a dental professional to remove tartar that can build up even with careful brushing and flossing
• Mouthwash: Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help reduce bacterial plaque

Common Dental Problems

Some of the most common issues addressed in dental care include:

• Dental caries: Decay of the teeth leading to cavities
• Periodontal disease: Infections of the structures around the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone
• Tooth loss: The loss of teeth due to damage or decay
• Oral cancer: Cancer that forms in any part of the mouth

Treatments

Depending on the condition, various treatments may be necessary:

• Fillings: Material such as gold, porcelain, or composite resin used to repair teeth
• Crowns: Artificial covers for damaged or decayed teeth
• Orthodontics: Alignment and straightening of the teeth and jaw
• Root canal therapy: Treatment of the infected core (pulp) of a tooth
• Dental implants and dentures: Replacement options for missing teeth

Importance of Dental Care

Good dental health is important not only for appearance but also for overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease. Therefore, regular dental examinations and proper dental hygiene can prevent the development of serious dental and medical problems.