The Role of Bacteria in General Dentistry

It’s not exactly a secret that your mouth plays host to masses of bacteria at any given time. Even if you’ve never been told about them, you’re likely familiar with their sticky by-product, dental plaque. The malicious germs found in your mouth are harmless in small numbers, but allow them to gather in force from within their protective plaque, and your oral health may suffer for it. Park Ridge general dentists, Drs. Maria and Thanasi Loukas, help patients battle the effects of overwhelming oral bacteria, and are experts at rebuilding smiles that have suffered from extreme tooth decay or gum disease due to poor hygiene. As they explain, preventing bacteria buildup is much simpler, and preferable, to fighting a fully-developed dental disease that stems from it.

Troublesome Little Microbes

Experts have identified over 600 different kinds of oral bacteria living in a healthy human mouth. Although the purpose of some of these microbes is still unclear, the processes of others are well-known, and lead to common dental health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath (halitosis). Oral bacteria are anaerobic (thrive without oxygen) and they form dental plaque to protect themselves from oxygen-rich saliva, as well as to stick to your teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing your teeth helps deprive bacteria of their protection by removing plaque. If it remains on your teeth for more than 48 hours, plaque will calcify into tartar, which is an insoluble substance that you can’t remove without the help of your general dentist or hygienist.

Overpower Your Mouth Germs

To make the most of your toothbrush and floss, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once, preferably before going to sleep. To eliminate tartar and reduce your risk of developing a dental health issue, the ADA also suggests visiting your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months, or more often if recommended by your dentist. If you notice signs of trouble, such as bleeding and/or swollen gums, persistent bad breath that won’t go away, or sensitivity in one or more of your teeth, then visit us as soon as possible to treat the condition before it grows worse.

About Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas:

Whether you wish to protect your smile from dental disease and damage, or restore your smile after suffering tooth loss, we can help you regain your oral health and confidence through a new and improved smile. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas are highly-skilled restorative and cosmetic dentists serving the Park Ridge and surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule an appointment, call Loukas General Dentistry today at (847) 696-1919.