Every tooth has a specific job or function (use the dental arch in this section to locate and identify each type of tooth): Incisors— the sharp, chisel-shaped front teeth (four upper, four lower) used for cutting food. Canines— sometimes called cuspids, these teeth are shaped like points (cusps) and are used for tearing food. Premolars— [...]
• Crown— the top part of the tooth, and the only part you can normally see. The shape of the crown determines the tooth’s function. For example, front teeth are sharp and chisel-shaped for cutting, while molars have flat surfaces for grinding. • Gumline— where the tooth and the gums meet. Without proper brushing and [...]
Toothpastes Choosing a toothpaste can be confusing. When buying toothpaste for your child, look for one that contains fluoride and tastes good. Some toothpastes also are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA Seal of Acceptance means that the toothpaste’s manufacturer has proven that the toothpaste is safe and effective. Some manufacturers choose [...]
How To Brush Modified Bass brushing technique: • Hold the toothbrush sideways against your teeth with some of the bristles touching your gums. • Tilt the brush so the bristles are pointing at your gum line. • Move the brush back and forth, using short strokes. The tips of the bristles should stay in one [...]
Brushing Most of us learned to brush our teeth when we were children. We have stuck with the same brushing technique into adulthood. Unfortunately, many of us learned how to brush the wrong way. And even if we learned the right way, we might not always stick to it. Brushing correctly is tricky. You want [...]
Taking Care of Your Teeth Thanks to better at-home care and in-office dental treatments, more people are keeping their teeth throughout their lives. Some diseases and conditions can make dental disease and tooth loss more likely. But most of us have a good deal of control over whether we keep our teeth into old age. [...]
It takes more than just brushing. OK, so you know about brushing and flossing. But there are other steps you should take if you want to keep your teeth for a lifetime. Some people assume they will lose their teeth as they age. That doesn’t have to happen. David A. Albert, D.D.S., M.P.H., suggests these [...]
While plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) says that other factors are thought to increase the risk, severity and speed of gum disease development. These can include: o Tobacco use — one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis. People who smoke [...]
A number of products are available to control infection and reduce inflammation. What it Is Why it’s Used How it’s Used Colgate Total – triclosan and fluoride toothpaste Over-the-counter toothpaste containing the antibacterial triclosan The antibacterial ingredient reduces plaque and resulting gingivitis. The fluoride protects against cavities. Used like a regular toothpaste Peridex or generic [...]
-Curettage — a scraping away of the diseased gum tissue in the infected pocket, which permits the infected area to heal. -Flap surgery — involves lifting back the gums and removing the tartar. The gums are then sewn back in place so that the tissue fits snugly around the tooth. This method also reduces the [...]