It is quite amazing when you stop to consider all of the different ideas and notions about proper dental care.  These seemingly conflicting theories leave the patient – or more accurately – the consumer, in a sea of bewilderment most of the time.

For instance, is fluoride in mouthwash and toothpaste good or bad? Many dental experts believe that toothpaste, mouthwash and even topical treatments of fluoride harden your teeth and are therefore good. Other researchers say that any fluoride containing product put in the mouth spikes blood fluoride levels. Fluoride apparently tends to accumulate in parts of the brain as well.

Most dentists recommend a check up and cleaning of the teeth a couple times a year, unless some extenuating circumstances require more frequent visits. But what should you expect to occur at such check ups?

Of course the dentist will check for cavities and clean your teeth. And it is necessary that you attend to the health of your teeth and gums by having regular cleanings and exams. But there are other things that a good dentist will do at a check up to prevent future problems with teeth and gums and to maintain current health.

Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

Colonies of bacteria on the tongue are the main cause of bad breath, usually on the back of the tongue. Just brushing the tongue can loosen and wash away the microbes and refresh the breath.

Other causes bad breath could be:

- Time of day – When a person sleeps, saliva flow almost stops. The mouth becomes dry and that condition allows microbial deposits to form. So in the morning is a more usual time for bad breath.

Plaque and bacteria that cause dental problems can be controlled by flossing and brushing your teeth.

Plaque is composed of bacteria, saliva and food particles. It adheres to teeth and gums and if it is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). Bacteria in plaque also make acids from food particles and that acid causes tooth decay. Periodontal (gum) disease results from the plaque and calculus destroying gums and bone.

Because plaque is continually forming in the mouth, the only way to control it is with regular brushing and flossing of the teeth.

gum surgery

One of the most important areas of health is actually dental hygiene. It is so important because it can lead to other diseases in other parts of the body. Gum disease is probably one of the most common forms of oral diseases. It is not only irritating, but can also be difficult to treat if oral health is ignored for too long. So what causes gum disease? Actually, many different things can cause it, but there are also various treatments and ways to prevent gum disease.