Why do we brush our teeth? Simple answer: to prevent cavities. We need to remove plaque, the transparent layer of bacteria that coats the teeth. ... Brushing also stimulates the gums, which helps to keep them healthy and prevent gum disease.Why it i

Stages of Tooth DecayStage 1: White Spots. The first stage of tooth decay begins when chalky white areas on the surface of the tooth appear due to the loss of calcium and build-up of plaque. ...Stage Two: Enamel Decay. ...Stage Three: Dentin Decay

Most dentists believe you should brush your teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening. This is important because during the night, the formation of plaque is mostly undisturbed. ... Bacteria feast on food particles, par

If you have thin layer of enamel, the true color of your naturally yellowish dentin will show through. Age can darken the color of your teeth: As you get older, the outer layer of enamel thins over time, making teeth appear more yellow. ... The color

What is the first sign of a cavity?As the decay gets larger, it may cause signs and symptoms such as: Toothache, spontaneous pain or pain that occurs without any apparent cause. Tooth sensitivity. Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something

Smoking leads to dental problems, including:Bad breath.Tooth discoloration.Inflammation of the salivary gland openings on the roof of the mouth.Increased buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth.Increased loss of bone within the jaw.Increased

Why do I have pain in between my teeth?If you have aching teeth, it may be due to a dental problem such as cavities, gum disease, bruxism, TMJ or a non-dental problem, such as a sinus infection or even stress. ... Causes of bruxism that lead to achi

Cuts or Abrasions: Gum pain can often be caused by a simple cut or abrasion. Braces or other dental hardware such as dentures or retainers can irritate the tissue and cause gum pain. ... If not treated properly by removing plaque from the teeth and a