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What is a tooth?
Teeth consist of a crown and root, which are formed
by three structures; enamel, dentine, and pulp.
- Enamel covers the
crown and is the
hardest tissue in
the body
- Dentine is the
major part of the
tooth
- Pulp contains nerves
and blood vessels
The root of each tooth is attached to the jaw bone.
The bone is covered by soft gum tissue, which forms a
cuff around the neck of the tooth. |
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What are Interdental spaces?
Interdental spaces are the areas between the teeth.
What is plaque?
Plaque is a film of bacteria
which forms on the tooth
surface. Plaque is responsible
for the two most common
oral diseases; tooth decay
and gum disease.
The mouth contains millions of bacteria; they stick to
the surface of your teeth and quickly multiply to form
plaque. |
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What is tartar?
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Tartar (calculus) is formed
when calcium in the saliva
combine with plaque to
make it hard. Once tartar
has formed, it can only be
removed by your dentist or
hygienist.
Regular, effective plaque removal is the best way to
prevent build-up of tartar. |
What is periodontal disease?
The early stage of
periodontal disease is called
gingivitis and is reversible. If
not treated gingivitis can
develop into periodontitis.
Periodontal disease is characterised by inflammation
of the tissues supporting the teeth. If plaque is allowed
to build up on teeth, periodontal disease develops. |
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What are the signs of periodontal disease?
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Periodontal disease may go unnoticed until it is quite
advanced.
However, most people will notice some of the
following signs:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Bad taste
- Teeth drifting apart
- Loose teeth
A classic sign of gingivitis is when gums bleed during
brushing and this is often the first indication of
periodontal disease. |
Can gingivitis be treated?
Yes. Gingivitis can be treated relatively easily with very
good results.
Your dentist or hygienist will ensure your teeth are free
from tartar and show you how to clean your teeth properly.
After treatment, thorough cleaning twice a day will
ensure that your gums will stay firm and healthy.
Can periodontitis be treated?
Yes. Treatment will depend on how far the damage to
the supporting tissues has gone.
Your dentist or hygienist will remove any deposits such
as tartar (calculus) or plaque, from pockets around
affected teeth.
Can gingivitis and periodontitis recur?
Yes. If you go back to your old teeth cleaning habits
the problem can return.
That is why it is important that you brush your teeth
thoroughly twice daily using toothbrush and floss.
Your dental professional will advise you on which
toothbrush and toothpaste to use.
Interdental cleaning requires specific tools
In addition to regular toothbrushing dental professionals
may recommend aids such as floss or interdental
toothbrushes for cleaning the spaces between teeth.
Dental floss
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Floss is most effective for narrow interdental spaces.
It will be more suitable for younger people who have
narrower interdental spaces. |
Interdental brushes
Interdental brushes allow thorough cleaning of
interdental spaces.
They can clean efficiently between the teeth and are
adapted for wider spaces, which make them suitable
for older people. |
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Smile with confidence!
A smile can tell a lot about your personality, mood,
and honesty. But most noticeably, your oral health.
Everyday care routines are essential for maintaining
good oral health. A proper toothbrush and the right
toothpaste are the basic tools you need to keep your
teeth and gums healthy for life.
This leaflet gives you an easy-to-understand insight
into the workings of your teeth and how you, together
with your dental professional, can help maintain
healthy teeth and gums.
© Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals
