Teeth Care - About teeth, Best tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Human's health and beauty is impossible without healthy teeth

Teeth are important for a variety of reasons - Teeth vary in size, shape and their location in the jaws. These differences enable teeth to work together to help you chew, speak and smile. They also help give your face its shape and form. Teeth are the hardest substances in the human body.
At birth, the baby has a full set of 20 primary teeth (10 in the upper jaw, 10 in the lower jaw) hidden within the gums. Primary teeth are also known as baby teeth, milk teeth or deciduous teeth.which start to come in (erupt) at about 6 months of age. They fall out (shed) at various times throughout childhood. By age 21, all 32 of the permanent teeth have usually erupted.
During pregnancy for baby healthy teeth, the mother's diet should have adequate amounts of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, and vitamin D.

There are 4 main stages of tooth development:

• The first stage begins in the unborn baby at about 6 weeks of pregnancy (gestation). This is when the basic substance of the tooth forms.
• Next, the hard tissue that surrounds the teeth is formed around 3 to 4 months of gestation.
• After the child is born, the next stage occurs when the tooth actually sticks out (protrudes) through the gum.
• Finally, the child loses the primary or baby teeth and start to come (erupt) permanent teeth.

Throughout your life, you will have two sets of teeth: primary (baby) teeth and secondary (permanent) teeth. Permanent teeth begin to grow around the age of 6 years. Your permanent teeth are the ones you keep for life, so it is vital that they are brushed and flossed regularly and that periodic check-ups by a dentist are followed.

Different types and functions of primary teeth and secondary teeth

1. The primary set of teeth consists of 20 teeth. 10 in the upper jaw, 10 in the lower jaw

This diagram (below) shows the names of the primary teeth, and the age at which the teeth grow, and they are lost.

These are made up of: four incisors, two canines and four molars in each jaw.
Incisors bite pieces of food, canines hold and tear food apart and molars grind food.

2. The secondary set of teeth consists of 32 teeth. 16 in the upper jaw, 16 in the lower jaw

This diagram (below) shows the names of the permanent teeth, and the age at which the teeth grow

The permanent teeth is made up of four incisors, two canines (or cuspids), four premolars (or bicuspids), four molars and two wisdom teeth (also called third molars) in each jaw. If wisdom teeth have been removed there will be 28 teeth.
Incisors teeth :- The incisors are the middlemost four teeth on the upper and lower jaws. They are used for cutting, tearing and holding food. The biting section of an incisor is wide and thin, making a chisel-shaped cutting edge.
Canines teeth :- The canines (or cuspids, meaning a tooth with a single point) are on either side of the incisors. They are for holding and tearing food.
Premolars teeth :- Premolars (bicuspids) and molars have a series of elevations (points or ‘cusps’) that are used for breaking up particles of food. Each premolar generally has two cusps, hence the name bicuspid. They are used for holding and crushing food.
Molars teeth :- Molars are the flat teeth at the rear of the mouth. Each molar typically has four or five cusps. They are used exclusively for crushing and grinding.
Wisdom teeth :- Wisdom teeth are also called third molars. They erupt from the age of 18 onwards but are often surgically removed.

Components and Anatomy of the Tooth

Teeth outside from gums look hard and white, but beneath the surface is a fascinating world.
Below we will look at the anatomy of a tooth.

Each tooth is made up of the same four components:
1. Enamel, 2. Dentin, 3. Cementum,, 4. Pulp.
Enamel, cementum and dentin are hard tissues, while the fourth, pulp, is a soft tissue.
1. Enamel :- Enamel is hardest, white outer part of the tooth. It is mostly made of calcium phosphate, a rock-hard mineral. Enamel cannot repair any decay or damage caused by wear and tear, because it does not contain any living cells.
2. Dentin :- Dentin is a layer underlying the enamel. It is a hard tissue that contains microscopic tubes. When the enamel is damaged, heat or cold can enter the tooth through these paths and cause sensitivity or pain.
3. Cementum :- Cementum is a layer of connective tissue that binds the roots of the teeth firmly to the gums and jawbone.
4. Pulp :- Pulp is the softer, living inner structure of teeth. Blood vessels and nerves run through the pulp of the teeth.

Other Parts of the Tooth

The crown is the part of the tooth which is visible in your mouth. It will normally be covered in enamel.
The gums (gingiva) are the soft tissues which protect and cover the roots of the tooth, and also cover teeth which have not yet erupted into the mouth.
The root canal is the space within the root which contains pulp.

Common teeth conditions that Make Your Teeth Hurt

1. Tooth decay :- Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities.
2. Cavity :- A cavity develops when a tooth decays or breaks down. A cavity is a hole that can grow bigger and deeper over time. Most cavities occur on molars and premolars. Cavities are also called dental caries and if you have a cavity, it's important to get it repaired. If the damage is too extensive or involves nerve damage, the tooth may need to be removed.
3. Periodontitis :- Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums. It’s caused by bacteria that have been allowed to accumulate on your teeth and gums. As periodontitis progresses, your bones and teeth can be damaged. However, if periodontitis is treated early and proper oral hygiene is maintained, the damage can be stopped.
4. Plaque :- Plaque is a sticky, colorless or pale yellow film that is constantly forming on your teeth. When saliva, food and fluids combine, plaque - which contains bacteria - forms between your teeth and along the gum line.
Dental plaque begins forming on teeth 4-12 hours after brushing, which is why it is so important to brush thoroughly at least twice a day and floss daily.
5. Gingivitis :- Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. This swelling is often caused by the build-up of plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more severe form of gum disease, known as periodontitis, which is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis is often painless, so if you exhibit any signs or symptoms be sure to visit your dental professional for a proper assessment and to determine a course of treatment.
6. Tartar :-  If plaque is not removed, this sticky film hardens or calcifies, it becomes tartar, which is also called calculus. The hardened plaque adheres to the enamel on your teeth and around the gum line; when it forms under or at the gum line, it frequently causes gum irritation. Calculus contributes to poor oral hygiene because it provides additional surface area for plaque to grow. It is a much sticker surface than the enamel of your teeth, making it easier for plaque to adhere and harden which makes the issue worse. This can lead to more serious dental problems including cavities, receding gums, and gum disease.
7. Overbite :- Overbites are identified when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth by a proportion of between 30-50%. It is what is medically referred to as a malocclusion. Oftentimes, an overbite can merely appear to be a problem with crooked teeth when in fact the person’s teeth and jaws are not lining up properly. Overbites can often be hereditary, with some people being born with malformed jaws that developed in an uneven manner..
8. Underbite:- Underbites are generally caused by genetics, meaning that nothing external causes them and they can’t be prevented. Individuals with this type of underbite were just born with it and it most likely runs in the family. Such genetic factors include a large lower jaw or overcrowding of the teeth.
Less frequently, some underbites can have a physical origin caused by childhood behaviors. Such risk factors include excessive thumb sucking, mouth breathing, constantly thrusting the tongue against the teeth, using a pacifier or bottle for too long, and bad chewing habits. These underbites can likely be prevented by teaching proper chewing habits and followin.
9. Teeth grinding (bruxism) :- Most people clench or grind their teeth from time to time. When this becomes a habit, usually triggered by stress or anxiety, it is known as bruxism. Bruxism can cause permanent damage to your teeth and can trigger other symptoms such as earaches, jaw pain, and headaches.
Bruxism typically occurs during the night and is known as sleep bruxism. Bruxism that occurs during the day, usually subconsciously, is known as awake bruxism. Bruxism that occurs on its own and is not triggered by any other medical condition is known as primary bruxism. Secondary bruxism occurs as a result of another condition or of medication.
10. Tooth sensitivity :- Tooth sensitivity is a common name for dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. If hot, cold, sweet or very acidic foods and drinks, or breathing in cold air, makes your teeth or a tooth sensitive or painful then you have sensitive teeth.

Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums

Teeth have a huge influence on human appearance and overall health. Taking good care of teeth is important to health, and not just oral health but overall general health as well.

Daily care, along with a healthy diet and regular visits to your dental practice, will keep your smile in top condition.

1. Choosing the Best Toothbrush :- Your toothbrush should be soft-bristled multi-tufted, with a head that’s small enough to get comfortably all around your mouth, and a handle that’s easy to grip. Soft bristles are kinder on your gums. Don’t forget to change your brush when the bristles start to get too soft or worn.
The best time to brush teeth is after meals. About every three months, ask your dentist how to use your toothbrush and any other hygiene aids, so that you know you’re using toothbursh effectively to remove biofilm (bacterial plaque) and not doing any damage in the process.
2. Brush properly :- In fact, doing a poor job of brushing your teeth is almost as bad as not brushing at all. Brushing too often - or too hard - can cause gum recession, and damage the root surfaces of the teeth by abrading them. Exposed roots may be quite sensitive and at greater risk for decay.
Brushing should take between two and three minutes. Take your time, moving the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque. Unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis (early gum disease).
3. Don’t neglect your tongue :- Plaque can also build up on your tongue. Not only can this lead to bad mouth odor, but it can lead to other oral health problems. Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
4. Use fluoridated toothpaste :- Fluoride is a leading defense against tooth decay. It works by fighting germs that can lead to decay, as well as providing a protective barrier for your teeth.
No matter which version you choose, make sure it contains fluoride. Fluoride also helps to harden tooth enamel and reduces your risk of decay.
5. Do floss at least once a day :- Flossing is the best way to remove plaque in places where your brush can’t reach in between the teeth. Plaque that isn’t removed leads to tooth decay and gum disease. If you need a refresher in flossing techniques, just ask your dentist, but don’t neglect this important part of your oral hygiene routine.
6. Do the tongue test to check cleanliness :- Run your tongue all over the surfaces of your teeth, front and back. If they feel nice and smooth especially down at the gum line - chances are you’ve done a good brushing job. If you’re not sure, use the disclosing tablets to see what areas you are missing.
7. Bad oral health habits :- Using any tobacco products, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, and chewing on pencils or fingernails, all have negative consequences for your oral health. A clenching or grinding habit can cause damage to your teeth, jaw joints and muscles, especially during sleep when you are unaware of it. Playing sports without a mouthguard multiplies your chances for dental injury. Wear a mouthguard or full-face helmet when playing sports. Stop the bad habits from today, that are harmful to your oral and general health.
8. Don’t brush immediately after drinking acidic :- This might seem strange at first - isn’t that when you’d want to brush? Actually it’s not, and here’s why - Acids “soften” the hard enamel covering of your teeth by dissolving the superficial layer/s. Ever notice how gritty your teeth feel directly after drinking a Coke? That’s the acid at work immediately. Acids in sodas, sports drinks and juices dissolve calcium out of the surface enamel by a process called de-mineralization. But saliva, which is rich in minerals, has a natural neutralizing and buffering ability that will re-mineralize enamel surfaces affected by acid. However, this can take 30-60 minutes. That softened surface layer can easily be removed with a toothbrush. Just like being over-vigorous, brushing right after you consume acidic food or drinks can have very negative consequences for your teeth leading to significant enamel erosion. It’s best to wait at least one hour to allow your saliva enough time to neutralize the acidic attack.
9. Do drink enough water :- Keeping your mouth moist is really important. Mouth dryness increases biofilm (plaque) accumulation and your risk for both tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Drinking plenty of water and keeping well hydrated has a number of health benefits for your entire body. In your mouth, it keeps sensitive tissues moist, and promotes the healthful action of saliva. Saliva not only buffers acids, it also aids digestion, helps the mouth fight germs, and even has a role in protecting the teeth from decay.
10. Foods for Optimum Oral Health :- Calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt and cheese, fortified soy drinks and tofu, canned salmon, almonds and dark green leafy vegetables help promote strong teeth and bones.
Phosphorus, found in eggs, fish, lean meat, dairy, nuts and beans is good for strong teeth.
Vitamin C promotes gum health, so eat plenty of citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, potatoes and spinach.