The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene
The best way to prevent cavities and Periodontal Disease (gum disease) is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques performed daily, as well as routine dental cleanings with your periodontist, dentist or hygienist. For many adults however, this isn’t enough; in fact, more people over the age of 35 lose teeth because of gum disease than because of cavities. Moreover, 70% of all adults over the age of 65 will be affected by gum disease at some point in their life. https://www.perio.org/newsroom/periodontal-disease-fact-sheet
Both gum disease and tooth decay can develop because of bacteria (dental plaque). Plaque (dental bacteria) is a colorless film that is constantly accumulating on your teeth, at the gum line, and below the gum line. The best way to combat this cumulative build up, and help prevent periodontal disease, is to regularly brush and floss. If plaque remains on your teeth however, it will turn into calculus (tartar) and will require removal by a dentist or hygienist. https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/tartar-plaque/plaque-tartar-causes-prevention-removal