Bacteria are the main cause of most periodontal diseases. Where the teeth meet the gums, there is a groove called the gingival sulcus; which is about one to two millimeters deep. Large amounts of food debris and bacteria can be accumulated on dental surfaces and gingival crevices due to poor oral hygiene. The bacteria themselves and the toxins they produce seep into the gums and cause inflammation, which loosens the fibrous tissue of the gums and makes it easier for plaque to invade.

If dental plaque is not removed, it will gradually calcify and harden, forming dental calculus. New dental plaque will quickly accumulate on the surface of rough dental calculus, with a vicious circle causing continuous inflammation of gums. Clinically, the gums become swollen and dark red in color. Gums also bleed easily when teeth are brushed and patients frequently complain of bad breath. Prevention is better than cure, with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups allowing early detection and early intervention.

Good Oral Hygiene Habit: Use Toothbrush and Floss Properly

Oral hygiene requires appropriate use of toothbrushes, floss and interdental brushes. Use them correctly every morning and evening to keep your mouth healthy. Effective oral hygiene habits need learning. Following demonstration of a brushing and flossing routine at the hospital, the doctor will have the patient perform the same routine at home. At each visit, the effectiveness of the patient’s oral hygiene routine will be checked and re-emphasized as necessary. Such repeated practice is required to achieve high standards. In general, it takes about 3 to 5 times of training for the implementation of oral hygiene in patients to meet the basic requirements.

Regular Oral Examination Every Six Months, Teeth Scaling If Necessary

Dental scaling means removing plaque and calculus attached to teeth. If plaque is not removed effectively, minerals in saliva will combine with plaque and calcify into a hard mass, which is dental calculus. Initially, dental calculus is milky white and not very hard. However, over time, calculus becomes a yellowish-brown or black-brown and is a challenge to remove. The vast majority of periodontology can be prevented by controlling plaques. The most effective way to control plaque is usually the correct brushing, and every six months to find a dentist for a full mouth examination and cleaning teeth to maintain periodontal health.