Health of teeth: how to keep a healthy smile
Chapter 1: The foundation of a healthy smile: Understanding the basics
Health of teeth is much more than just a beautiful smile. This is an integral part of general health and well -being. Diseases of teeth and gums can affect the ability to chew and speak, self -esteem, and even at general health, including heart, lungs and diabetes. Understanding the basics of teeth health is the first step towards preserving a healthy and radiant smile for many years.
1.1. Tooth anatomy: from enamel to pulp
To effectively take care of the teeth, it is important to understand their structure. The tooth consists of several layers:
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Enamel: The hardest layer of the tooth covering the crown (visible part). The enamel consists mainly of minerals, such as hydroxyapatitis, and protects the tooth from mechanical damage and acid exposure. The enamel does not contain living cells, so it cannot recover on its own.
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Dentine: Located under the enamel and is the main mass of the tooth. Dentin is less solid than enamel and contains microscopic tubules that are associated with pulp.
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Pulp: The center of the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. Pulpa is responsible for the nutrition and sensitivity of the tooth.
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Cement: It covers the root of the tooth and helps attach it to the jaw bone through periodontal ligaments.
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Periodontal ligaments: Connect the root of the tooth with the jaw bone, providing depreciation and allowing the tooth to withstand the chewing load.
1.2. The role of saliva: the defender of the oral cavity
Saliva plays a key role in maintaining tooth health. It performs many important functions:
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Cleansing: Saliva washes away the remaining food and bacteria from the surface of the teeth, preventing the formation of denture.
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A acid neutralization: The saliva contains bicarbonates that neutralize acids formed after eating, protecting the enamel from destruction.
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Remineralization: Saliva contains calcium and phosphates that help restore enamel damaged by acids.
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Antibacterial effect: Saliva contains antibodies and enzymes that kill bacteria in the oral cavity and prevent the development of infections.
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Digering: The saliva contains an amylase enzyme that begins to break down carbohydrates in food.
Insufficient salivation (xerostomy) can lead to increased risk of caries and other diseases of the oral cavity.
1.3. Tooth and toothstone: enemies of a healthy smile
A dental plaque is a soft, sticky film consisting of bacteria, food residues and saliva, which is constantly formed on the teeth. If the dentition is not removed regularly, it can harden and turn into toothstone (solid deposits), which is more difficult to remove on its own.
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Denture formation: Bacteria in the oral cavity metabolize sugar and carbohydrates, forming acids that destroy enamel.
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Risks associated with tartar and tartar:
- Caries (dental destruction)
- Gingivitis (inflammation right)
- Periodontitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding teeth leading to teeth loss)
- Unpleasant odor from the mouth (galitosis)
Regular and proper oral hygiene is the best way to prevent the formation of plaque and tooth stone.
Chapter 2: oral cavity hygiene: daily protection
Proper oral hygiene is the basis of the health of teeth and gums. It includes regular tooth brushing, using a dental thread and a rinseum for the mouth.
2.1. Proper brushing tooths: technology and tools
Tooth cleaning is the most important step in maintaining oral hygiene.
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Choosing a toothbrush: It is recommended to use a toothbrush with soft bristles so as not to damage the enamel and gums. The size of the brush head should be such that it can reach all teeth.
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Choosing toothpaste: Choose a toothpaste containing a fluoride that strengthens the enamel and protects from caries.
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Teeth brushing technique:
- Keep a toothbrush at an angle of 45 degrees to the gums.
- Perform soft circular movements, covering all surfaces of the teeth (front, posterior and chewing).
- Clean each tooth for 2 minutes.
- Do not forget to clean the tongue to remove bacteria and refresh your breath.
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Tooth brushing frequency: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before going to bed.
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Electric toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes can be more effective than ordinary toothbrushes, especially for people with limited dexterity of hands.
2.2. Use of dental thread: interdental space
The dental thread is necessary to remove the denture and food residues from the interdental spaces, where the toothbrush cannot get.
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Types of dental thread: There are various types of dental thread, including waxed, involved, flat and voluminous. Choose the one that is most convenient for you to use.
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Dental use technique:
- Tear off about 45 cm of the tooth thread.
- Wrap the thread around the middle fingers of both hands, leaving about 2-3 cm between the fingers.
- Gently enter the thread between the teeth using sawing movements.
- Bend the thread around each tooth and carefully draw it up and down, cleansing the side surfaces of the tooth.
- Do not forget to clean the teeth of wisdom and other inaccessible places.
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The frequency of use of the dental thread: Use the dental thread at least once a day, preferably before bedtime.
2.3. Rinse aid for the mouth: Additional protection
The mouth rinse for the mouth can help destroy bacteria, refresh breath and strengthen enamel.
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Types of rinses for the mouth: There are various types of rinses for the mouth, including:
- Antiseptic rinses (contain antibacterial ingredients)
- Fluoride rinses (strengthen enamel)
- Cosmetic rinsers (refresh breathing)
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How to use an oral rinseum:
- Pour the required amount of rinses into a measured cup.
- Rinse your mouth for 30-60 seconds, trying to get to all sections of the oral cavity.
- Put the rinseum.
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The frequency of using the rinseum for the mouth: Use the mouth rinse in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
2.4. Interdental ruffs: an alternative to dental thread
Inte d “eupa on the throat are small brushes that are used to clean the interdental spaces, especially in people with wide intervals or braces. They can be more effective than a dental thread to remove denture and food residues.
- How to use interdental ruffs:
- Choose a suitable size ruff for the interdental interval.
- Gently enter the ruffs in the gap and draw them forward and back several times, cleansing the side surfaces of the teeth.
Chapter 3: Diet and Health of the Tooth: Enabivarian effect
What we eat has a direct effect on the health of our teeth. Some products and drinks contribute to the development of caries, while others strengthen enamel and protect against diseases.
3.1. Proofs harmful to teeth: sugar and acids
Sugar and acids are the main enemies of a healthy smile.
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Sahar: Bacteria in the oral cavity use sugar to form acids that destroy the enamel of the teeth, leading to caries.
- Products containing a lot of sugar: sweets, cookies, cakes, carbonated drinks, fruit juices.
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Acids: Acids contained in some products and drinks can also destroy tooth enamel (acid erosion).
- Products and drinks containing many acids: citrus fruits, juices, carbonated drinks, vinegar, wine.
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Tips for reducing the effects of sugar and acids:
- Limit the consumption of sweet and sour products and drinks.
- Drink water after eating sweet or acidic products and drinks to wash off the remains and neutralize acids.
- Chew chewing gum without sugar after eating to stimulate salivation.
3.2. Products useful for teeth: strengthening enamel and gums
Some products help strengthen enamel and protect against diseases of teeth and gums.
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Calcium products: Calcium is an important mineral for the health of teeth and bones.
- Sources of calcium: milk, yogurt, cheese, green leafy vegetables, enriched products.
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Products rich in phosphorus: Phosphorus is also necessary for the health of teeth and bones.
- Sources of phosphorus: meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds.
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Products rich in fluoride: The fluoride strengthens the enamel and protects against caries.
- Sources of fluoride: fluorine water, fluorine toothpaste, fluorine products.
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Fruits and vegetables rich in fiber: Fiber helps to cleanse the teeth and stimulates salivation.
- Examples: apples, carrots, celery.
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Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help protect against gum diseases.
3.3. Eating frequency: snacks and tooth health
Frequent snacks during the day can increase the risk of caries, especially if snacks contain sugar.
- Recommendations:
- Try to eat three times a day and avoid snacks between meals.
- If you need to eat, choose healthy options such as fruits, vegetables or nuts.
- Brush your teeth after snacks, if possible.
Chapter 4: Frighting: Caries Protection
Flecting is the process of adding fluoride to drinking water or other products to strengthen the enamel of teeth and protection against caries. Flecting is considered one of the most effective and safe ways to prevent caries.
4.1. Fluoride action mechanism:
The fluoride strengthens the enamel of the teeth, making it more resistant to acids. It also promotes enamel remineralization, restoring damaged areas.
4.2. Sources of fluoride:
- Flectoral water: Water fluoridation is the most common way to obtain fluoride.
- Flector toothpaste: Most toothpastes contain fluoride.
- Fluoride rinsers for the mouth: Fquorids for the mouth can be recommended by a dentist for people with a high risk of caries.
- Fluoride varnishes and gels: Fluoride varnishes and gels are applied to the dentist directly on the teeth for additional protection against caries.
- Fluoride additives: Fluoride additives can be recommended to children who do not receive enough fluoride from other sources.
4.3. Fluoride safety:
Flecting is considered a safe and effective way to prevent caries. However, excessive fluoride consumption can lead to fluorosis (a change in the color of the enamel of the teeth). Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended doses of fluoride.
Chapter 5: regular visits to the dentist: prevention and treatment
Regular visits to the dentist are an important part of maintaining the health of teeth and gums. The dentist can identify and treat problems at an early stage before they become serious.
5.1. The recommended frequency of visits to the dentist:
It is recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year for a preventive examination and professional brushing. People with a high risk of developing caries or gum diseases may need to visit the dentist more often.
5.2. Dentist’s procedures:
- Preventive inspection: The dentist examines teeth and gums for signs of caries, gum diseases and other problems.
- Professional tooth brushing: A dentist or hygienist removes the plaque and tooth stone from the surface of the teeth.
- X -ray pictures of teeth: X -ray pictures allow the dentist to see problems that are not visible during the usual examination, such as caries between teeth or problems with teeth roots.
- Caries treatment: The dentist removes the fabric affected by caries and fills the cavity with a seal.
- Treatment of gum diseases: The dentist conducts treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent further destruction of tissues surrounding the teeth.
- Tooth removal: The dentist removes teeth that cannot be saved.
- Orthodox treatment: The dentist conducts treatment to correct the bite and alignment of the teeth.
- Dental prosthetics: The dentist sets prostheses for replacing missing teeth.
5.3. Questions that should be asked to the dentist:
- What are my problems with teeth and gums?
- What methods of treatment do I need?
- How can I improve my oral hygiene?
- What products and drinks should I avoid?
- How often should I visit the dentist?
Chapter 6: Dental and gum diseases: causes, symptoms and treatment
There are many diseases that can affect teeth and gums. It is important to know about the causes, symptoms and methods of treating these diseases in order to turn to the dentist in a timely manner.
6.1. Caries:
Caries is the destruction of tooth enamel caused by acids formed as a result of sugar metabolism by bacteria in the tooth raid.
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Causes of caries:
- High sugar consumption
- Insufficient oral cavity
- Drawer of saliva
- Genetic predisposition
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Symptoms of caries:
- Sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet
- Pain in the tooth
- Visible holes or stains on the teeth
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Caries treatment:
- Removing the fabric affected by caries and filling the cavity with a seal.
- In some cases, treatment of the root canal or tooth extraction may be required.
6.2. Gingivitis:
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a tooth raid and a tooth stone.
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Causes of gingivitis:
- Insufficient oral cavity
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Some diseases (for example, diabetes)
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Symptom Gingivita:
- Bleeding gums when brushing your teeth or using a dental thread
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Unpleasant odor
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Gingivitis Treatment:
- Professional brushing to remove denture and tooth stone.
- Improving oral hygiene.
- The use of antiseptic rinseurs for the mouth.
6.3. Periodontitis:
Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease, in which inflammation extends to the tissues surrounding teeth, leading to bone loss and teeth teeth.
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Reasons for periodontitis:
- Surrounded gingivitis
- Smoking
- Genetic predisposition
- Some diseases (for example, diabetes)
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Periodontitis symptoms:
- Bleeding gums
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Unpleasant odor
- Teeth teeth
- Deviation of gums
- The formation of dentistry pockets
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Help of periodontitis:
- Professional brushing to remove denture and tooth stone.
- Smoothing the roots of teeth to remove bacteria and toxins.
- Surgical treatment to restore bone tissue and reduce dental pockets.
- Antibiotic therapy.
6.4. Tooth sensitivity:
The sensitivity of the teeth is pain or discomfort that occur when teeth contact with cold, hot, sweet or sour.
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Causes of teeth sensitivity:
- The destruction of enamel
- Deviation of gums
- Cracks in the teeth
- Brooksism (grinding of teeth)
- The use of bleaching
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Treatment of teeth sensitivity:
- Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
- Fluoride applications.
- Tooth coating with special varnishes.
- Treatment of causes causing teeth sensitivity (for example, caries sealing or treatment of bruxism).
6.5. Brooksism (grinding of teeth):
Bruxism is an involuntary rattle of teeth, which can occur during sleep or wakefulness.
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Causes of Brooksism:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Malocclusion
- Some diseases (for example, Parkinson’s disease)
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Symptoms of Brooksism:
- Headaches
- Pain in the jaw muscles
- Grinding teeth during sleep
- Dental damage (chips, cracks, washing)
- Sensitivity of tooths
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Treatment Bruxism:
- Using a night kappa to protect teeth from damage.
- Stress decrease.
- Correction of bite.
- Musorelaxants (drugs related muscles).
Chapter 7: Special situations: pregnancy, diabetes and other factors
Some states and factors can have a special effect on the health of the teeth. It is important to know about these factors and take appropriate precautions.
7.1. Pregnancy and health:
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that can increase the risk of gingivitis and other gum diseases.
- Recommendations for pregnant women:
- Regularly visit a dentist for a preventive examination and brushing of your teeth.
- Observe the correct hygiene of the oral cavity.
- Limit the consumption of sweet foods and drinks.
- Tell the dentist about your pregnancy.
7.2. Diabetes and health:
Diabetes can increase the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as slow down healing after dental procedures.
- Recommendations for people with diabetes:
- Regularly visit a dentist for a preventive examination and brushing of your teeth.
- Carefully control blood sugar.
- Tell the dentist about your diabetes.
7.3. Smoking and healthy health:
Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of gingivitis, periodontitis and cancer of the oral cavity.
- Recommendations for smokers:
- Throw smoking.
- Regularly visit a dentist for a preventive examination and brushing of your teeth.
- Observe the correct hygiene of the oral cavity.
7.4. Medicines and health:
Some drugs can cause dry mouth (xerostomy), which increases the risk of caries.
- Recommendations for people taking drugs that cause dry mouth:
- Drink more water.
- Chew chewing gum without sugar.
- Use saliva replacements.
- Regularly visit a dentist for a preventive examination and brushing of your teeth.
Chapter 8: Cosmetic dentistry: Improving the smile
Cosmetic dentistry offers various procedures to improve the appearance of teeth and smiles.
8.1. Bleeping tooths:
Bleing tooths is a procedure that allows you to lighten your teeth and remove stains and darkening.
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Types of teeth whitening:
- Homemade whitening with the use of KAPP and whitening gel.
- Office bleaching using professional bleaching and laser or light activator.
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Side effects of teeth whitening:
- Sensitivity of tooths.
- Irritation of the gums.
8.2. Vinirs:
Vinirs are thin overlays of ceramics or composite materials that are attached to the front surface of the teeth to improve their shape, color and size.
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Advantages of veneers:
- Natural appearance.
- Stained stains.
- Minimum tooth treatment.
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Vinir disadvantages:
- Higher cost compared to other cosmetic procedures.
- Irreversibility (in most cases).
8.3. Crowns:
Crings are caps that are worn on highly destroyed or damaged teeth to restore their shape, size and strength.
- Types of crowns:
- Cross -line crowns.
- Ceramic crowns.
- Zirconium crowns.
8.4. Correction of bite (orthodontics):
Orthodontic treatment is aimed at correcting the wrong bite and alignment of teeth using braces, elainers or other orthodontic devices.
- Advantages of orthodontic treatment:
- Improving the appearance of a smile.
- Improving the function of chewing and speech.
- Reducing the risk of developing caries and gum diseases.
Chapter 9: Care for teeth in children: from the first days of life
The health of teeth in children plays an important role in their overall development and well -being. Care for the teeth should begin with the first days of life.
9.1. Care for the gums of the baby:
Even before the first tooth appears, it is necessary to wipe the baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth or a special silicone brush after each feeding.
9.2. Cleaning of the first teeth:
When the first tooth appears, begin to clean it with a soft children’s toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste containing fluoride.
9.3. Flecting in children:
Frighting of drinking water and the use of fluorine toothpaste are effective ways to protect the teeth of children from caries.
9.4. Visiting a children’s dentist:
The first visit to the dentist is recommended at the age of one year or within six months after the appearance of the first tooth.
9.5. Caries prevention in children:
- Limit the consumption of sweet foods and drinks.
- Do not let the child fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice in his mouth.
- Brush your child’s teeth regularly.
- Visit a dentist for preventive examinations and brushing your teeth.
9.6. Habits harmful to teeth in children:
- Sucking a finger or dummy.
- Bite lips or tongue.
- Grinding teeth.
Chapter 10: Myths and Elorifications of Health Health
There are many myths and misconceptions about the health of the teeth, which can lead to improper care of the oral cavity. It is important to know the truth about the health of the teeth in order to make reasonable decisions.
10.1. Myth: If the teeth do not hurt, then they are healthy.
Reality: many diseases of teeth and gums can occur asymptomatic in the early stages. Therefore, regular visits to the dentist are necessary for timely diagnosis and treatment.
10.2. Myth: brushing your teeth after each meal is harmful to enamel.
Reality: brushing your teeth after each meal is a useful habit that helps to remove plaque and prevent the development of caries. However, it is important to wait 30 minutes after eating acidic products and drinks so as not to damage softened enamel.
10.3. Myth: Gleaging of teeth harms enamel.
Reality: properly conducted teeth whitening does not harm enamel. However, improper use of bleaching can lead to teeth sensitivity and gum irritation.
10.4. Myth: Dental thread is needed only to remove stuck food.
Reality: the dental thread is necessary for removing the denture and bacteria from the interdental spaces where the toothbrush cannot get. Regular use of dental thread helps to prevent the development of caries and gum diseases.
10.5. Myth: Treatment of a root canal is a painful and terrible procedure.
Reality: Modern methods of treating the root canal allow the procedure without pain and discomfort. Treatment of the root canal is often the only way to save the tooth from removal.
10.6. Myth: implants are only for the elderly.
Reality: implants can be established by people of any age who have healthy gums and enough bone tissue to support implant.
10.7. Myth: Caries is only a problem of children.
Reality: caries can develop at any age.
Chapter 11: Modern Technologies in Dentistry: Innovation for Health Health
Dentistry is constantly developing, offering new technologies and treatment methods to improve the health of the teeth.
11.1. Digital dentistry:
Digital dentistry includes the use of computer technologies for diagnosing, planning the treatment and manufacture of dental restorations.
- Intraoral scanners: Used to create three -dimensional models of teeth and oral cavity.
- CAD/CAM system: Used for the design and manufacture of dental restorations, such as crowns, veneers and tabs.
- 3D printing: Used for the manufacture of surgical templates, teeth models and temporary restorations.
11.2. Laser dentistry:
Lasers are used in dentistry for various procedures, such as treating caries, gum diseases, teeth whitening and surgical operations.
11.3. Using stem cells in dentistry:
Studies in the use of stem cells for tooth tissue regeneration are in the early stages, but have great potential for the future treatment of teeth diseases.
11.4. Telstomatology:
Telistomatology allows dentists to consult patients remotely using video conferences and other technologies.
Chapter 12: Tips and recommendations to preserve a healthy smile for many years
- Observe the correct hygiene of the oral cavity.
- Limit the consumption of sweet and sour products and drinks.
- Regularly visit a dentist for a preventive examination and brushing of your teeth.
- Throw smoking.
- Carefully control blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- Protect your teeth from injuries during sports.
- Use the night capture if you have Brooksism.
- Timely contact the dentist in the event of any problems with teeth and gums.
- Follow your general health.
- Be attentive to changes in the oral cavity.
Following these tips and recommendations, you can keep a healthy and radiant smile for many years.