Avoid the Agony – Prevent an Abscess!
Are you afraid of the dentist? Don’t worry; you are not alone. Lots of people share this phobia, but why? The best way to avoid needing dental treatment is to go to the dentist for regular check-ups! When tooth pain and cavities are ignored, decay is allowed to continue wreaking havoc in the mouth. The crowning achievement of bacteria is an abscess. You’ve heard of it before and it doesn’t sound good, but what is it and how prevent an abscess?
When a severe cavity is left untreated or when a chip or crack in the tooth is not repaired, bacteria can infect the center of tooth, called the pulp. This infection can extend to the root of the tooth, and even into the jaw, if left untreated. Pockets of pus develop at the root or between the tooth and the gum. Among other things, this can cause painful swelling, bad breath and difficulty chewing. Really, it’s best to avoid an abscess altogether!
The best way to evade the misery of an abscess is to follow simple hygiene practices, such as:
Brushing.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is paramount to good oral hygiene. Use a toothpaste that has fluoride in it and remember to get a new toothbrush every three months. Always use brushes with soft bristles.
Flossing.
Don’t forget that your teeth have surfaces you can’t see! No matter how well or often you brush, a toothbrush cannot clean between your teeth. Using floss at least once a day helps to keep food debris from collecting in these tricky areas. Using a mouthwash is also really helpful for rinsing out hard-to-reach parts of the mouth.
Regular Check-Ups.
Having regular dental examinations and professional cleanings is vital to maintaining oral health. The dentist can monitor the health of your teeth and identify any potential problems before they become a big deal. Professional cleanings remove tartar and plaque build-up from your teeth, which means that bacteria has to start all over.
Abscesses are very painful. You can avoid the agony by brushing, flossing, and having regular dental check-ups. Take control of your oral hygiene and simply don’t allow bacteria to cause severe damage to your teeth. Remember, there is nothing to fear but fear itself!
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