Like other areas of the body, your mouth teems with bacteria — mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease. Normally the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the body's resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.
- Do we need to use fluoride toothpaste?
- Children and adults benefit from fluoride use. Fluoride strengthens developing teeth in children and prevents tooth decay in both children and adults. Toothpastes and mouth rinses contain fluoride. Fluoride levels in tap water may not be high enough without supplementation to prevent tooth decay.
- Children and adults benefit from fluoride use. Fluoride strengthens developing teeth in children and prevents tooth decay in both children and adults. Toothpastes and mouth rinses contain fluoride. Fluoride levels in tap water may not be high enough without supplementation to prevent tooth decay.
- What are the symptoms of a mouth infection?
- Signs of an infection in the mouth include:
- Bad breath
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Fever
- Pain
- Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
- Swelling of the gum
- Swollen glands of the neck
- Swelling in the jaw
- Signs of an infection in the mouth include:
- How to protect our oral health?
- To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene daily
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush using fluoride toothpaste; eg : Dentissimo Gold Toothpaste Gel
- Floss daily; eg : Pearlie White Flosscare 100m
- Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing; eg.: Weleda Rathanhia Mouthwash 50ml
- Eat a healthy diet and limit food with added sugars
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn; eg.: Dentissimo Toothbrush Gold
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoid tobacco use
- To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene daily
