Cosmetic Dentistry Weblog

Did you know that much of the treatment that dentists can provide directly or indirectly related to your brush? Few awareness programs dental never provide this information or explain the dangers of toothbrush.

First, let me say that the idea of using a toothbrush as part of a hygiene program to keep your mouth clean and healthy is definitely a good idea. Without reservation, support and promote the concept. There has, however, a tendency to promote the toothbrush to the position of Supreme dental products. The concept of toothbrush as a cure-all has been allowed to take root without the mind of people. This has led to all sorts of problems not least of which is the sense of disappointment down and committed and enthusiastic Brushers feel when they are told they need filled.

The toothbrush does not prevent decay, – Hello!

“How I can get cavities if I brush my teeth but not once, at least three or four times a day?” It is a question I often ask. When I tell people that brushing has little effect, if any, on dental caries, the reaction is often shock and disbelief. They have really thought that brushing your teeth are kept safe from all the cavities are devastated and that you will be, perhaps, the presence of a large cavity which may require root canal treatment or extraction.

Just in case you, the reader, are experiencing the same state of shock and disbelief in these words, let me explain clearly the facts. Tooth decay, mostly occurs in specific areas of the anatomy of the tooth. The most common site of decay is in the nooks and crevices of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The second most common site is between the teeth at a point just below a tooth that touches its neighbor. What these sites have in common is their inaccessibility to the bristles of your toothbrush. These sites are known as zones of stagnation under its inaccessibility and might be called the major ‘at risk’ sites of decay. This is very simply why brushing your teeth with little or no effect on dental caries. The bristles are simply too big for access to areas at risk!