Why should you brush your teeth at least twice a day? At Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Shelby Township, we’re using this space to discuss why it is so important.
The first, and most obvious benefit, is that brushing and flossing prevents tooth decay. It removes the food debris from teeth and clears away plaque, that filmy residue that forms on their surface.
When food stays on teeth, the starches in the food mixes with the plaque and forms an acid that begins eating into the enamel. That is how cavities are formed.
Gum Disease
Regular brushing and flossing also keeps gums and bone healthy. The same plaque that causes decay can infect the gums. Eventually the gum tissue becomes infected and leads to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
- Left untreated, it progresses into the more serious periodontitis.
- The sequence generally goes like this:
- Plaque build-up irritates gums.
- Irritated gums pull back from the tooth.
- Bacteria multiply in the spaces between the gum and tooth.
- The bone holding the tooth is eaten by the bacteria.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. The good news is that gum disease is treatable, especially in its earliest stages.
At Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Shelby Township, we treat gum disease. Patients from Washington Township, Macomb, and Lakeside also come to our practice for a full range of general dentistry and other services. Schedule an appointment with us today!
Contact Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry:
586-685-0880
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
45665 Village Blvd
Shelby Township, Michigan
48315
