Plaque Attack
By: Cathy Witbeck
My grandpa used to take his teeth out at night and put them in a glass. He said that eating with those false teeth was like trying to chew with hockey pucks. If you want to keep your teeth your whole life, you need to know some things. This is what a tooth looks like inside:
The hard part, the enamel, protects the sensitive part of the tooth. If a hole gets through the enamel, something cold, hot, or sweet can send pain through the dentin to the pulp and make you say, “Ouch.”
We have to work every day to help our enamel stay strong. Sticky stuff called plaque likes to get on our teeth. The plaque has bacteria in it. When we eat, the bacteria combines with what we are eating to make acid that can eat right through our enamel and irritate our gums. Not only can we end up with tooth decay, but we can get what’s called gingivitis, or really irritated gums. They can get so irritated, they actually bleed. The plaque can even harden and cause a calculus buildup called tartar. The hygienist has to scrape it off of your teeth with a special instrument so that it will not discolor and look really awful. Tartar is more irritating to your gums than plaque.
What can we do to help our teeth and gums? One thing we can do is choose foods that don’t stick to our teeth. Fruits and vegetables are better for your teeth than jellybeans and cookies. If your food or drink contains a lot of sugar, the sugar will end up on your teeth, too, and bacteria love sugar. Swishing with water after a meal can help wash away what you ate between brushings.
The best thing that you can do for your teeth is to get that plaque off quickly and for as long as possible. The best time to brush your teeth is after breakfast and before bedtime. Let those teeth have a good long, clean break with no “plaque attacks.”
Another way to get the plaque off of your teeth is by flossing. If you aren’t sure how to floss, check with your dentist during your next visit. The dentist or the hygienist will be happy to show you an easy way to help you to reach all the tricky places.
Using a mouthwash when you brush is a good idea, especially if it contains fluoride. Fluoride is a superhero for teeth. Some areas put fluoride in the drinking water, which is great for your teeth. Always choose toothpaste with fluoride. It actually helps to build up your enamel.
On average, you will keep the last of your baby teeth until you are about ten years old. Those baby teeth are doing their job holding a place for the permanent teeth to come in and look marvelous. Show your appreciation by keeping them healthy while you wait for your permanent teeth. While you are waiting, remember to say no to “plaque attacks” by avoiding sticky treats and picking up that toothbrush!
Illustration Copyright © 2010 Cathy Witbeck
Copyright © 2010 by Cathy Witbeck