Why should everyone brush their teeth at least twice a day? At Shwarts Family Dentistry in Richardson, we’re using this space to discuss why it is so important.
The first, and most obvious benefit, is that brushing and flossing prevents tooth decay. It removes the food debris from between teeth and clears away plaque, that filmy residue that forms on their surface.
When food stays on teeth, the starches in the food mixes with the plaque and forms an acid that begins eating into the enamel. That is how cavities are formed.
Second, and perhaps less obvious, is that brushing and flossing keeps gums and bone healthy. The same plaque that causes decay can infect the gums. Eventually the gum tissue becomes infected and leads to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
Left untreated, it progresses into the more serious periodontitis.
The sequence generally goes like this:
- Plaque build-up irritates gums.
- Irritated gums pull back from the tooth.
- Bacteria multiply in the spaces between the gum and tooth.
- The bone holding the tooth is eaten by the bacteria.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
The good news is that gum disease is treatable, especially in its earliest stages.
At Shwarts Family Dentistry in Richardson, we treat gum disease. We also offer a full range of general dentistry and other services. Schedule an appointment with us today.
About the Practice
Dr. Ellis Shwarts and his skilled team have proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in the Richardson, TX community for several years! A Dallas native, Dr. Shwarts received his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and has spent countless hours educating himself and honing his skills so that he can provide a truly unmatched level of care. The practice offers a comprehensive range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule your next visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for further assistance: (972) 525-9283.