The difference between a smile and painful ouch! 
by Dr. Shajeena R.P

Healthy teeth and gums- A precious possession- take care of them and they will take care of you.
You dental health is an essential part of your general health. Neglect of your teeth effects your general well being so take care of them and they will serve you lifelong.
Bacteria are a cause of most common dental health problems and here's how they work to ruin your healthy teeth and gums. Plaque is this sticky invisible form of bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth and gums. This has to be removed by proper tooth brushing. Plaque is the real villain behind tooth decay and gum problems:

How plaque causes gum diseases?

Plaque if not removed in time, hardens into calculus commonly called "tartar". This causes gum irritation followed by inflammation of gums. This condition is called GINGIVITIS - characterized by bleeding gums. If not treated in time, this spreads into the underlying bone and the bone begins to erode. The gum & the underlying bone recedes, giving place for more deposition and eventually the tooth loses its support. This condition is called PERIODONTITIS.

Brushing your teeth 3 times a day, using a dental floss if required and rinsing after every meal, prevents plaque accumulation. A regular clearing by your dentist to remove tartar build-up that your normal brushing and flossing cannot, is also required.
How plaque causes tooth decay?

Plaque combines with sugar present in food particles to produce acids which attack the tooth enamel. Repeated acid attacks wears off the tooth enamel and a cavity develops. This cavity, if not filled at the earliest spreads into the inner layer -dentine and teeth begins to be sensitive. If still not treated, the cavity deepens, effecting the still deeper layer - PULP. This can be very painful. Once the pulp is involved Root Canal Treatment is necessary. Or else, the infection spreads deeper into the underlying bone causing an abcess and ultimately, extraction of your tooth is only choice.

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