Learn the truth about brushing, flossing and more to improve your dental health.
Tooth decay and gum disease may not cause pain initially. Regular dental checkups help detect and treat issues before they worsen1.
Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, replace them every 3 months or sooner when bristles fray. Old toothbrushes can increase infection risk and decrease oral hygiene.2
Poor oral health can affect systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Oral care is crucial for overall health and well-being.3
Proper brushing prevents gum disease and doesn't cause recession. But hard-bristled brushes or aggressive brushing can damage gums and cause gums to recede.4
Hard brushing damages enamel, irritates gums, and causes sensitivity and gum recession. Try using a soft-bristled brush and brush gently.5
Toothpastes have varying ingredients, so selecting the right one for your needs is essential. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth has components that lessen sensitivity, whereas toothpaste for tartar control contains ingredients that impede plaque and tartar buildup.6
Carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks, such as fruits and bread, can convert into sugar. When these molecules interact with saliva and oral bacteria, they can create plaque on teeth, leading to tooth decay.7
The color of your teeth is not an indicator of oral health. Even people with white teeth can have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems.8
Tooth Decay, National Health Service, Scotland
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mouth/tooth-decayOral health: A window to your overall health, Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and prevention, National Library of Medicine, USA
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5426403/Gum disease and heart disease: The common thread, Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/gum-disease-and-heart-disease-the-common-threadThree‐year randomized study of manual and power toothbrush effects on pre-existing gingival recession,National Library of Medicine, USA
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5084749/6 Habits That Harm Your Teeth, American Dental Association
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/bad-habits-for-dental-healthMouth Healthy, American Dental Association
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/toothpasteAssociation Between Type, Amount and Pattern of Carbohydrate Consumption with Dental Caries, National Library of Medicine, USA
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5311111/Cavities/Tooth Decay, Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892#:~:text=They're%20especially%20common%20in,toothache%2C%20infection%20and%20tooth%20loss.