You are probably aware that you should brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and visit your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups, but how much do you really know about dentistry? Sheridan dentist, Dr. Donald Coon, is excited to help you brush up on some basic dental facts.
Which is More Important: Brushing or Flossing?
They are equally important, and should be viewed as a team. Proper brushing only gets to approximately 60% of the mouth. The act of flossing picks up the slack by reaching the areas that your toothbrush misses. Consider flossing before you brush so that the debris you remove between teeth can be brushed away rather than sitting on the surfaces of teeth.
Are Teeth Actually Alive?
A tooth is comprised of nerves and cellular material that make each one an actual living structure. Like anything alive, teeth need to be cared for properly to avoid the risk of them dying. When a tooth dies, extensive restorative dental work might be necessary, including extraction and prosthetics to replace the dead tooth.
What is a Cavity?
Cavities happen when your enamel becomes compromised and allows bacteria inside your teeth. These germs start to eat away at an infected tooth, causing a hole that we call a cavity. The decay needs to be stopped quickly by your Sheridan dentist by giving you a filling. If the decay is left too long, it can go all the way into the pulp of a tooth, which means you will need a root canal.
Tooth Enamel: A Diamond in the Rough
Second to diamonds in terms of the strongest substances on earth, there is nothing stronger in your body than enamel. Enamel is like a body guard for the sensitive inner parts of your teeth. If the enamel is damaged, tooth decay can begin, causing a need for more extensive and expensive dental work, beyond your average dental checkup. Enamel can be easily protected with good oral hygiene, avoiding sugar, and seeing your dentist regularly.
Visit your Sheridan Dentist
Are you due for a dental checkup with your Sheridan dentist? To schedule a consultation contact our 82801 dentist office at (307) 672-7567. We welcome patients from Sheridan, WY and the surrounding communities.
