Have you ever said (or heard anyone say) bad teeth run in my family? There is some truth to that statement. Gum disease has a genetic component. Remember, there is also a bacterial factor at play.
If you are sharing drinks or food with family members who have untreated periodontitis the bacteria can be transferred to you. This can put you and otherwise healthy relatives at greater risk for dental disease than those households whose family members don’t have the condition.
Bad teeth also mean a lot of different things to different people. In some cases, you may have teeth that protrude or are crowded. When it comes to misalignment and bite issues, these conditions are very much in the genes and can be passed from generation to generation.
However, decay is often driven by habits, it is important to practise good oral hygiene. It is always best to brush for at least 2 minutes after every meal to remove sugars and food debris that produce destructive acids when consumed by mouth bacteria. Many diligent brushers fail to floss properly. Brushing alone can’t remove plaque in hard-to-reach spaces. Floss every day to remove plaque along the gumline and around and between the teeth.
If you are a parent, practising good oral hygiene is one of the best ways you can assure healthy teeth and gums for the next generation. Your children imitate what you do, so there are lots of opportunities to set a good example with good at-home care. For hardened plaque that can’t be removed with a toothbrush and flossing alone, consistent visits and professional cleanings as prescribed by Dr. Kotecha are required. She and her team at Dentistry on 10 use special instruments and techniques to remove tartar and get your smile looking beautiful and healthy again.
It is never too late for you or a relative to benefit from family dentistry near Port Credit. Phone Dentistry on 10 at (905) 455-9262 to schedule an appointment at our Mississauga office.
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