Missing one or two nights of brushing and flossing your teeth may not seem important until you take a closer look under a microscope. A recent study authored by Denis Bourgeois, PhD of the University of Lyon, France, took a closer look at young adults who were caries-free to determine the microorganisms present in a healthy mouth. The findings might surprise you and motivate you to brush and floss your teeth without fail.
Even in healthy young people, two bacteria appeared in 100 per cent of subjects – streptococcus and lactobacillus. Enterococcus came in at a close second, appearing in 99 per cent of subjects’ mouths. A fungi species called candida albicans was less common, affecting about 11 per cent of the participants.
What This Means for You
While the presence of bacteria in the human body is essential to digestion and other essential functions, its prevalence in healthy mouths reiterates the importance of good oral hygiene.
Dental cavities develops in the presence of bacteria, which generate an acidic byproduct that deteriorates enamel. When left untreated, decay will typically spread and affect more of the tooth structure. Decay is usually asymptomatic until it is well-advanced and affects the nerve. At this point, treatment may be more complex and could involve root canal treatment or even an extraction.
As your Chatswood dental clinic, our skilled practitioners help patients develop good preventive oral care routines to reduce the instances of decay and other common dental conditions.
Preventive treatments include:
- Dental exams
- Scale and polish
- Diagnostic x-rays
- Periodontal disease treatment
- Fluoride applications
- Sealants
To learn more about improving your oral health and your smile, we welcome you to contact us to arrange a booking. Our friendly team and dedication to personlised patient care makes taking care of your smile a positive experience.
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